Leveraging Satellite Imagery for Field Estimates and Planning
In the ever-evolving world of the food supply chain, the need for precision and foresight in agricultural planning has never been more critical. As demand for fresh produce grows, so does the pressure on the supply chain to deliver consistent, high-quality products. Fortunately, advancements in technology, specifically satellite imagery, are revolutionizing how field estimates and planning are conducted. With tools like Loamy, businesses can now leverage satellite data to gain invaluable insights, allowing them to make smarter decisions throughout the entire supply chain.
Identifying Field Issues Weeks in Advance with NDVI and EVI
Early problem detection in crop fields can make the difference between a bountiful harvest and significant losses. Traditional methods of identifying crop stress rely on visual inspections or physical field assessments, which often occur too late in the process. Satellite imagery, on the other hand, allows for early detection of issues in the field, even weeks before the human eye can notice them.
With technologies like the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), satellites provide a more precise measurement of plant health. NDVI captures the density and health of green vegetation, while EVI offers more detailed insight, adjusting for atmospheric and canopy background signals to provide a clearer understanding of plant stress levels. By analyzing this data, growers can spot problems like pest infestations, water deficiencies, or nutrient imbalances early on and take action before the issues escalate. This proactive approach not only increases crop yield but also improves the overall quality of produce.
Access Any Field, Anywhere, Without Leaving the Office
In the past, keeping track of multiple fields across regions or even countries required constant communication with field workers or costly visits from agronomists. Satellite technology changes that paradigm by offering remote access to any field, anywhere in the world, at any time. Instead of relying on text updates, which may be subject to delays or incomplete information, or the logistical nightmare of flying experts to multiple locations, Loamy’s satellite capabilities give you a bird’s eye view of crop conditions instantly.
This type of on-demand access is a game changer for food manufacturers, brokers, and wholesalers managing fields across vast regions. It allows them to check on plant stress, moisture levels, or pest problems with just a few clicks. This kind of instant visibility helps in making quick decisions, leading to more efficient field management and reduced operational costs.
Predicting Yield and Optimizing Distribution
Knowing the expected yield from a field is crucial for planning. Satellite imagery can help predict yields with greater accuracy, enabling food businesses to better manage their supply chains. Rather than waiting until the end of the season, satellite data can give you real-time insights into how much produce you can expect from each field.
More importantly, satellite insights can help businesses understand whether their produce can endure long-distance transport or if it’s better suited for local markets. This information is vital for grower shippers and wholesalers, as it allows them to plan their distribution more effectively. For example, if satellite data shows that a particular crop is not resilient enough to make it cross-country, businesses can make informed decisions to sell locally and avoid potential losses. On the other hand, produce that is projected to be of higher quality can be prioritized for longer shipments, ensuring customers receive the freshest products possible.
Validating Lots to Meet Customer Requirements
In today’s market, meeting customer expectations is paramount. Retailers and wholesalers have specific requirements regarding the quality and size of produce they accept. Satellite imagery, combined with data-driven analytics, provides businesses with a more comprehensive view of their crops and the ability to validate that they meet these requirements.
Instead of waiting for physical inspections or surprise quality rejections at the shipping dock, growers can use satellite data to ensure their lots align with customer specifications early in the process. This level of validation reduces the likelihood of rejections, returns, or disputes, helping both parties maintain a smooth working relationship and minimizing costly disruptions.
Conclusion
The adoption of satellite imagery in agriculture is transforming the way food manufacturers, grower shippers, brokers, and wholesalers operate. By offering real-time, in-depth insights into crop health, predicted yields, and plant stress, satellite technology empowers businesses to make smarter decisions, improve efficiency, and maximize profitability. With tools like Loamy, you no longer need to rely on outdated methods of field management. Instead, you can access any field around the world from the comfort of your office, identify problems before they escalate, and ensure that your produce meets customer expectations—whether it’s traveling across the country or being sold at a local market.
Now is the time to leverage satellite technology and stay ahead in the competitive food industry. With Loamy, you can gain the insights you need to optimize your operations and ensure the success of your business.
By implementing satellite imagery into your operations, you can streamline your field estimates and planning, reduce uncertainty, and ensure that your supply chain runs more smoothly from field to market. Contact us here to learn more.
