Investigation of the Transition to Environmental Remote Sensing and Factors Influencing Effective Decision-Making on Soil Preparation and Sowing Timing: A Case Study

Abstract

The advancement of smart metering technology is progressing steadily and inevitably across various key economic sectors. The utilizatio.n of remote sensors in agriculture presents unique characteristics and specific challenges. In this study, an on-site experiment was carried out on a Slovakian production farm to analyze the transition from traditional measurement methods to smart meters, focusing on timing decisions related to soil preparation and sowing and their relation to scientifically justified dates. Consequently, a clear distinction was observed in terms of the timing decisions made regarding agricultural activities during traditional, combined, and scientifically based approaches in meteorological data readings. This study contrasts these three scenarios and deliberates on the factors that need to be carefully evaluated before incorporating remote sensors into agricultural processes. This study serves as a valuable resource for individuals involved in the adoption of smart metering practices in the Eastern European agricultural sector and promotes an improved understanding of the interactions within smart-sensing, scientific developments, and land management that contribute to the goal of land-system sustainability.

Keywords

• smart meters
• LoRaWAN
• digitalization of farms
• LPWAN
• timing in agricultural operations
• remote sensors