Otago Field Days - Cutting-edge UAVs used to map fields

A major attraction at this year’s Otago Field Days is the chance to win one of two field mapping packages, valued at $500 each, from Land IQ Insights.

This cutting-edge business has been using UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, or drones) for six years as part of the photogrammetry services it offers.

The UAVs can calculate areas and volumes, find hidden tile drains, detect weeds, reveal plant health, map yields, show K-Line placements, and now analyse nitrogen content.

Land IQ Insights was established by Neill Glover, who has a BSc degree in spatial and land information. His farming background and keen photographic eye combine perfectly for spatial problem-solving. He has worked on GPS tracking systems in Asia, has a vast knowledge of GIS skills, and has trained many people in advanced computer skills both in New Zealand and internationally.

Colin Aldridge has worked with Land IQ Insights since 2015, helping with technical aspects of extracting useful information from drone images. After 20 years in metal exploration and mining, including being the Macraes Mining exploration director, he switched careers to IT systems analysis and design.

 

“ The UAVs can calculate areas and volumes, find hidden tile drains, detect weeds, reveal plant health, map yields, show K-Line placements, and now analyse nitrogen content.”

 

Dr Aldridge gained his PhD in data mining and knowledge discovery in spatial databases.

Henk Roodt, who has a master’s degree in physics and a PhD in engineering science, brings extensive experience in system design and structuring and analysing complex spaces. He has been involved in projects such as evaluating satellite remote sensing and space capability, risk assessment for a prototype steel plant, and developing neural network algorithms for rocket propellent design.

TJ Glover is employed in the hospitality sector while studying UAV flying and photogrammetry.

Land IQ Insights is conducting field trials with North Otago Pastoral Services, which is also attending the Otago Field Days. Agronomist Nathan Paton, who has a science degree from the University of Canterbury plus comprehensive farming knowledge from working on sheep and beef and dairy properties, will be on hand to offer advice to clients.

Other major prizes enticing visitors to the Otago Field Days include a helicopter ride each day with Heliventures, and native trees from North Otago nursery Statement Trees.