SGS launches precision farming and fertility management services in Colombia

​SGS is pleased to announce the launch of a comprehensive range of precision farming and fertility management services for the Colombian agricultural sector.

Utilizing the latest technology, our experts work alongside Colombia's forward-thinking agricultural managers, delivering the specific information they need to make optimal decisions and maximize productivity.

 

Colombia has been classified as a country with agricultural potential. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) analysis by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has shown that in the third quarter of 2019 the agriculture sector grew by 2.6%, in comparison to 2018. In large part, this was due to a 3.4% increase in agricultural crops.*

 

The agricultural sector is currently leading economic growth in Colombia. 2020 is seen as a year of development and consolidation, with increased international demand for its agricultural products expected to unleash this economic potential. Crops of particular interest include avocados, bananas, palm oil, corn, coffee and cocoa. It is predicted that around 26.5 million hectares could be developed to take advantage of this potential sector growth.

 

SGS precision farming services support efficient farm management by linking local capabilities to a global internet of things (IoT) platform. Utilizing platform data, farmers can ensure their crops and soils receive the correct inputs – for example, water, nutrients, crop protection products – to optimize nutrition and productivity. This approach supports profitability and sustainability in the farming sector by maximizing yields, while at the same time protecting the environment by not over-treating fields.

 

The procedure involves accurate field mapping combined with high quality sensor information, such as NDVI satellite imaging. The farmer can then access SGS's fertility monitoring services during the crop growth cycle to ensure they make the right crop management decisions to obtain the best results in their product.

 

SGS precision farming and fertility management services allow farmers to choose the optimum time for carrying out a wide variety of tasks. Solutions include:

 

·Field mapping – data is linked to farm management information and analytical results, including composition and nutrient statuses

·Monitoring crop biomass development during the vegetation cycle, concurrent with crop development stages

·Identifying field 'hot spots' where farmer/crop scouts will need to pay specific attention

·Constant updates – SGS agronomists study source data throughout the growing cycle to provide recommendations

About SGS

SGS is a global leader in the provision of precision farming and fertility monitoring services to the agricultural sector. As part of a global network of agricultural experts, farm operators in Colombia can access local expertise backed by global know-how. Whatever the crop and wherever operating, SGS has the expertise to optimize productivity while reducing costs.