John Deere Manure Sensing uses the HarvestLab 3000 sensor’s near-infrared (NIR) system to measure nutrient values during slurry application. This technology has now been recognised by the European Land and Soil Management Award jury as a major breakthrough in soil technology.

The award is designed to highlight outstanding land use and soil management practices that help to protect the soil.

The Land and Soil Management Special Recognition prize was awarded on 9 April 2019 during a Forum for Agriculture (FFA) event by the European Landowners’ Organisation (ELO). The award is endorsed by the European Commission (DG Environment and Joint Research Centre) in association with the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna.

The company says HarvestLab 3000 provides farmers and contractors with a new technology for more sustainable management of the nutrient cycle and to improve the efficiency of using manure as a fertiliser. The system prevents over- or under-fertilisation by constantly measuring nutrient values during slurry application.

John Deere Manure Sensing allows users to apply N, P and K more precisely, based on a nutrient target and/or maximum application rate in kg/ha. These ingredients and the total volume applied are automatically and accurately documented, with the system also able to utilise site-specific prescription maps.

This coveted prize recognises the highly valuable work of farmers, universities and private companies by promoting the winning project as good practice across Europe. It also enhances the visibility of farming methods that protect the soil at a local, national and European level, and encourages farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.

“On behalf of the European Commission, I would like to congratulate John Deere for this remarkable technology and achievement,” said EC Director General for Environment Daniel Calleja Crespo at the award ceremony. “It is exactly the kind of technology that the European Union wishes to promote, and will inspire our policies for a more sustainable agriculture.”