We’re considering offering robotic soil sampling (developed and provided by ROGO) to consistently pull the most accurate samples in the industry.
How Do Robotics Ensure Accuracy in Soil Sampling?
True Depths - Within 1/8"
Collects a consistent vertical profile of the soil
Measures from ground, not frame
Measures depths within 1mm
"Smart" hydraulic valve control
Complete Cores - Across Variable Soil Conditions
Keeps Samples Clean & Consistent
Probe tip & motion cuts through crop residue
Senses rocks
Improves soil flow in heavy soils
Exact Locations - RTK-Level Accuracy
Improves cross-season repeatability & spatial maps in-between points
High-accuracy GPS system
Drives mostly autonomously
Human operator avoids obstacles
Error-Proof Process - Automated Data flow
Prevents Human Mistakes
Prevents Mislabelled Bags
Avoids Mixing Samples
Tracks Point Changes
Accountability System - Digital Recordkeeping
Provides Proof That Samles are Taken Correctly
Records core depths & locations
Records the robot's field path
Records mission modifications
Why Does Accuracy Matter - Especially in Today's Economy
Why Gather New Data? Soil changes fast – fertility inputs shift soil chemistry within just a few years. Relying on old data risks both missing nutrient deficiencies (where we should spread more) and wasting money on unnecessary fertilizer (where we should spread less). Fresh samples ensure our plan reflects current soil chemistry.
Why is Accuracy More Important in Times Like These? Tighter input use means fewer “excess available nutrients,” and less margin for error. Even small inaccuracies in the soil samples, VRT prescriptions, or application could push an area past the “critical level,” causing a nutrient deficiency (and yield loss) to develop over the following years.
One sample bag represents ~2.5 acres and ~4 years of fertility decisions – nearly $1,000 of input investment per sample. Robotic sampling ensures those dollars are spent with confidence.
Questions? Reach out to Bud Petry
Bud Petry, Paxton Location Manager
- Cell: 815-383-7944
- Email: bud.petry@nutrien.com