In this episode of Tiny Bites, we unravel the complexities of vector files and their indispensable role in geospatial data storage. We break down the fundamentals of vector files, explaining how they use vertices and segments to form points, lines, and polygons, and why this matters to anyone working with geospatial data. 

We'll take you through practical examples, from creating boundaries and sampling soil to exporting prescription files. By the end of this episode, you'll understand how vector files' infinite coordinate data ensures precision and versatility across various applications, from GIS software to graphic design.

Discover the secrets of soil fertility, straight from the expert himself, Dr. R. Jay Goos, Professor Emeritus at NDSU. From his humble beginnings on a farm in western Iowa to becoming a revered educator, Dr. Goos shares his unique journey. Immerse yourself in his passion for soil fertility and some helpful takeaways from Introduction to Soils. Sit back and listen as we discuss practical applications of soil science, the perfect intersection of earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics.

In this episode, Dr. Goos walks us through his extensive research work on chloride fertilization, urease and nitrification inhibitors, and phosphorus fertilizaiton in wheat. We dive into the challenges and triumphs of his research on Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC) in soybeans, and the vital role of chloride as a micronutrient in North Dakota agriculture. Gain an understanding of the historical and contemporary practices of chloride application, and the significance of iron in plant health, all through the lens of a seasoned soil chemist.

In the final segment, join us for a deep dive into the advancements in soil microbiology and precision agriculture. Dr. Goos contrasts traditional soil microbiology methods with modern DNA testing, addressing the challenges of interpreting extensive data. Explore the dynamic rhizosphere affected by IDC and the innovative solutions provided by variable rate technology (VRT) in managing it. We wrap up with a discussion on the forward-thinking solutions from GK Technology, and our shared enthusiasm for putting these concepts to the test out in the field. Don't miss this stimulating conversation packed with insights about soil chemistry with the soil chemistry legend that is Dr. R. Jay Goos.

Discover the power of viewing and collecting data on the go with GK Field Mapper, the cutting-edge mobile GIS tool designed specifically for precision agriculture. In this episode, we delve into how this innovative app, available for both Android and iOS, enables you to view and create GIS files right from your mobile device. Whether you're a soil sampler or a casual GIS map viewer, GK Field Mapper can help streamline your workflow with its user-friendly interface and advanced features.

We’re excited to introduce this game-changing app to our loyal GK Technology software customers, as it seamlessly integrates with ADMS, utilizing the GK Cloud for rapid data transfer. Customization options, such as altering colors and names of points, lines, and polygons, make this tool incredibly versatile for field applications. Don't miss the chance to enhance your productivity—download the app using the direct link in the podcast notes, and be sure to share your feedback with us. Join us to learn how the GK Field Mapper can make your field operations better!

GK Field Mapper for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gkmobile.droid&hl=en_US

GK Field Mapper for iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gk-field-mapper/id6448194019

In this conversation, Clint Streeter, GK Technology’s “aerospace engineer” and GIS specialist, discusses the specifics of satellite and aerial imagery and its applications in agriculture. He explains the differences between various types of imagery, such as NAIP, Landsat, and Sentinel, and how they are used to create zones for field analysis. Clint also highlights the importance of practicing and honing the skill of zone creation, as well as the benefits of GK Technology's software in making zones from multiple images over multiple years. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the availability and management of imagery data.

Website Clint mentions that shows real-time collected images from Landsat 9 (this is super cool): https://earthnow.usgs.gov/observer/ 

Raster is term that gets used in precision agriculture all the time.  In this episode, Jodi and Sarah discuss exactly what a Raster is and how is it used in Precision Agriculture and ADMS software. 

Jodi and Sarah discuss the difference in managing fields with grids and zones. Both of these precision agriculture soil sampling and management systems have a fit in various agronomic and landscape situations. 

Clint Streeter, the GK Technology resident aerospace engineer and imagery pecialist, shares his background and journey into aerial imagery for agriculture. Clint grew up in eastern Montana and worked for the US Forest Service before pursuing a degree in Aviation and Natural Resources Management. He then flew for the Upper Midwest Aerospace Consortium (UMAC), collecting high-resolution aerial imagery for farmers and researchers. Clint discusses the challenges of planning flights and capturing imagery, as well as the technology and equipment involved. The images he took for UMAC were primarily of research plots for researchers, but he also worked with farmers during this time, providing high-resolution images for precision agriculture and crop planning. Clint implemented many improvements to the process of collecting and georeferencing aerial imagery and worked with UMAC until joining GK Technology. 

This week Sarah and Jodi dive into the second part of their conversation with NDSU's Dr. Franzen, who shares his experience having watched precision agriculture develop over the course of his career. 

 In this episode, Jodi and Sarah discuss:

•  How management zones were developed and how they have revolutionized precision ag in North Dakota 
• Where grid and zone sampling fits in different field situations
• Active optical sensors and their value for soil fertility management
• The implementation of precision agriculture faces barriers such as the lack of skilled technicians and the time constraints of farmers

Successful precision agriculture programs and consultants must have three important skills.  In this episode of Tiny Bytes, Jodi and Sarah discuss why successful precision agriculture programs and consultants understand 1) Agronomy Knowledge; 2)Software and data analysis skills; and 3) Equipment knowledge.