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FIELDSTAR teams up with satellite images and variable rate applications to cut costs, improve crop quality and boost yields in this advanced program.

According to multi-crop grower Pete Carson a complete Precision Agriculture plan is the best way to manage inputs, increase outputs and create better margins.

"If we can attain higher yields with less inputs, we're saving on both ends of the spectrum," states Carson. "It's a win-win situation... through applying the tools of precision agriculture."

The results of Carson's program are the "proof of the pudding". By analyzing each field on a year-in, year-out basis he has cut costs, boosted yields and improved quality.

Here are some of the highlights of his program:

• Analyzes carryover fertilizer so the amount needed for the next crop is applied.

• Manages N to reduce lodging in wheat while increasing yield.

• Systematically uses check strips to prove the payback value of fungicide treatments and other crop inputs.

• Increases crop quality by as much as 15% on sugar beets to nail down premium prices.

• Passes along accurate field information via field map overlays to growers who lease a portion of his acres so they can improve their production.

• Protests the environment by applying only what the crop needs on an accurate basis using variable rate technology (VRT).

"We're cutting back nitrogen in wheat, dramatically," points out Carson. "That saves input dollars while our yields go up. The misconception is our quality must be poor. Instead, it's improving. The reason is that cutting back N in wheat also reduces lodging and disease. Withou6t the tools of Precision Agriculture, we never would get the right information and know what to do to achieve these results."

Carson also reports favorably on the environmental aspects of Precision Agriculture.

"With the technology that's available today we can reduce excess materials in our water and aquifers as well as preserve organisms in our soil," he concludes. "That's an added benefit now, but in the long run, it may be the most important one."

Where to start?

It's as easy as visiting Mabie Brothers. Whether you're starting up, at the intermediate stage or in the advanced category, Mabie Brothers has the FIELDSTAR READY equipment you need and the information to put it to work. Isn't it time to set a higher profit goal for your farm and let Precision Agriculture take you there? Mabie Brothers and FIELDSTAR are ready to help.