Using reflectance sensing in precision irrigation management and scheduling under arid conditions
Problem Overview
Canopy reflectance is a very accurate and direct index of water in plants compared to soil humidity sensing or climate monitoring used currently for irrigation scheduling. This novel technique offers a precision solution for irrigation, especially in arid regions suffering from water scarcity where water should be saved. The use of reflectance sensing has been widely practiced for drought monitoring in several regions in the world through remote sensing. According to literature, this technology has not been used yet for daily irrigation management and scheduling.
Project Description
Through this project, a new method using canopy spectral reflectance sensors to control irrigation will be developed and correlation between soil moisture and canopy temperature will be elaborated for better irrigation scheduling. Field experiments will be carried out to evaluate the reflectance variation with water stress. Indices like NDVI and PRI (Photochemical Reflectance Index) will be measured by using a spectral reflectance sensor, which will serve as key irrigation scheduling parameters.
Research Innovation Theme
Crop productivity and diversification
Downloadable files
Duration
January 2015 - January 2016
Project Lead
Project Region
Near East and North Africa
Project Countries
United Arab Emirates
Partner(s)
- Further Advancing the Blue Revolution Initiative (FABRI)
- USAID
- DAI