Comparative economic analysis of soil sampling methods used in precision agriculture

Abstract Precision agriculture is an alternative for reducing costs. This study evaluated and economically compared three sampling methods used in precision agriculture with respect to the acquisition of inputs and machines and equipment. The sampling methods used were zone management by elevation (ZME), grid sampling (GS) and sampling guided by apparent electrical conductivity of the soil (OS). Soil samples for the ZME were collected after the definition of zones according to the elevations of the plots. The sample mesh was in a georeferenced mesh of 100 x 100 m. The targeted sampling was performed after a ground proximity sensor was used to identify the apparent electrical conductivity of the soil to define the management areas. From the results of the laboratory tests, the application costs were calculated for lime, phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen to allow a comparison between the methods, volumes and costs. This approach considered the costs of depreciation, insurance, interest, operating costs, labor, maintenance and fuel. With this study, it was possible to compare the volumes of the recommended fertilizers and estimate the overall economic cost of using the technology via sensor. Taking the GS as a reference, the ZME presented as the best alternative compared to other methods.