RICEFERTISAT - Improving the efficiency of nitrogen fertilisation in rice cultivation by remote sensing

Rice cultivation is particularly demanding in nitrogen, the nutrient that most influences production. In this context, IRTA, within the framework of the innovative project GO RiceFertiSat and in response to the needs of the Catalan rice sector, has developed knowledge on the spectral response of rice varieties and algorithms to optimize fertilization.

The demonstrative project RiceFertiSat aims to transfer this knowledge to the sector through the use of satellite data. Based on the spectral information of the crop, its nutritional needs can be identified and more precise and efficient top-dressing fertilization recommendations can be generated.

To make this possible, the project combines IRTA’s expertise in agronomy and fertilization with IEEC’s expertise in satellite data processing. This makes it possible to use spectral indices obtained from Sentinel-2 satellites and, when available, data from Catalan nanosatellites from the NewSpace strategy.

The ultimate goal is to provide accessible tools to the sector, such as the possible integration of these recommendations into existing platforms like Fertiarròs, thereby improving the sustainability and efficiency of rice farming systems.

Objectives

• Optimize nitrogen fertilization in rice cultivation.
• Improve nutrient use efficiency through remote sensing.
• Promote more sustainable practices in rice farming systems.
• Transfer technology and knowledge to the productive sector.