Nebraska RTK CORS Overview & Introduction
Overview and Introduction: what CORS Reference Network is and its significance in agriculture, particularly regarding Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) variable rate technology:
In the world of modern farming, technology plays an increasingly vital role in helping us manage our lands more efficiently and productively. One such technological advancement is the CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Station) Reference Network, a system that might sound complex but has a straightforward and beneficial role in agriculture. Imagine CORS as a network of highly precise GPS stations, much like the GPS we use in our cars or smartphones, but far more accurate and specialized for agricultural needs.
These stations are strategically placed across the landscape and work continuously to provide extremely accurate location data. This data is crucial for what we call Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology in farming.
Now, let’s delve into why RTK technology, supported by CORS, is so important for us as farmers. RTK is a type of GPS technology but with a level of precision that standard GPS can't match. Standard GPS systems, like the ones in our vehicles, can be accurate up to several meters, which is fine for everyday navigation.
However, in farming, especially when we are using advanced techniques like variable rate technology (VRT), we need accuracy down to the centimeter. This is where RTK, with its high precision, becomes a game-changer. VRT allows us to apply things like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides in varying amounts across different parts of our fields. To do this effectively, we need to know our exact position in the field, and that's precisely what RTK technology, guided by CORS networks, provides.
Using CORS and RTK, we can guide our tractors and farm equipment with incredible accuracy. This means every seed, every drop of water, and every bit of fertilizer can be placed exactly where it needs to be. For example, areas of the field that are more fertile may need less fertilizer, while less fertile areas might need more. RTK technology helps us apply these inputs precisely where they are needed, optimizing our resources and improving crop yields. This not only saves us money by reducing waste but also helps in protecting the environment by minimizing the excess use of chemicals.
The CORS network is like the backbone of this high-precision farming. Without CORS, RTK technology wouldn't have the reference points it needs to be so accurate. The network ensures that the signals we receive on our equipment are as precise as possible. This level of accuracy is vital for us, especially when we are adopting modern farming practices like no-till farming, precise planting, or controlled traffic farming, all of which rely heavily on knowing the exact position of our equipment in the field.
In states where a public CORS network is available, farmers have seen significant benefits. They can access this high-accuracy data without having to pay hefty subscription fees. In contrast, in states without a public CORS network, farmers often have to subscribe to private services, adding an extra cost to their farming operations. Having a public CORS network can be a big boon for us farmers – it’s like having a highly advanced mapping and guidance system that ensures every action we take in the field is done with precision and care.
In conclusion, the CORS Reference Network, though a high-tech system, serves a very down-to-earth purpose in modern agriculture. It supports RTK technology, enabling us, the farmers, to practice precision agriculture. This means we can be more efficient with our resources, improve our crop yields, and reduce our environmental footprint, all of which are essential for sustainable and profitable farming in today’s world. Adopting such technology is a step forward in ensuring that our farms remain productive and sustainable for generations to come.
Addendum#1 1/18/2024 -
This explanation is designed to be accessible and relatable, translating the technical aspects of CORS and RTK into practical benefits for farming.
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Modernizing the Nebraska CORS Reference Station Network
Introduction
This briefing is prepared with an aim to provide a detailed overview of the proposed modernization of the Nebraska CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Station) Reference Station Network.
This initiative has significant implications for the agricultural sector in Nebraska, particularly in terms of economic impact and operational efficiency for farmers.
Context and Current Scenario
The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) owns a series of 40 fixed private GPS Reference Stations used by NE DOT exclusively for road survey, maintenance, and mapping.
These Reference Stations could be Networked to provides essential data as a public utility for Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning, crucial for precision farming.
However, unlike neighboring states (Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, etc.), Nebraska’s farmers are currently required to pay substantial subscription fees for RTK Correction Services, amounting to $1000-$1500 per tractor annually. This scenario places a financial strain on Nebraska’s agricultural economy, with over $3 million potentially leaving the state each year in the form of these fees. Here’s a list of other states ‘Free CORS RTK Networks’ where farmers pay ‘zero $’.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TNQdGnLUKAXxho-F_S8C6oLZjovRO3Jd/view?usp=drive_link
Key Questions and Considerations
Necessity of a Public GNSS Reference Station Network
Comparison with neighboring states where farmers benefit from free access to state-run RTK Networks.
Economic analysis of the current cost burden on Nebraska farmers and its impact on the state’s economy.
Feasibility of Upgrading Existing Infrastructure:
Technical assessment of NDOT’s current Reference Stations and their compatibility with the requirements of a public RTK CORS Network.
Organizational and operational considerations, given that most states’ free RTK Networks are managed by their respective roads departments.
Support from Agricultural Communities
Gauging the level of support from Corn and Soybean commodity groups for transitioning to a ‘free’ RTK service model.
Addressing the discontent among farmers regarding the current model where only a few companies benefit from the resale of RTK subscriptions.
Comparative Analysis with Other States
Examination of RTK Network models in Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Texas.
Understanding best practices and successful models that could be adapted for Nebraska.
Legislative and Regulatory Landscape
Exploration of potential legislative or regulatory actions that could support the establishment of a public RTK Network in Nebraska.
Engagement with the Public Service Commission and other relevant stakeholders to assess feasibility and gather support.
Economic Impact and Long-term Benefits
Detailed analysis of the potential economic benefits of a public RTK Network for Nebraska’s agriculture sector.
Consideration of long-term impacts on agricultural efficiency, crop yields, and overall competitiveness of Nebraska’s farming industry.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Plan
Developing a strategy to effectively communicate the benefits of the proposed modernization to farmers, commodity groups, and other stakeholders.
Organizing informational sessions and discussions to address concerns and gather feedback.
Next Steps and Recommendations
Outlining a roadmap for moving forward with the proposed modernization, including key milestones and timelines.
Recommendations for engaging with state legislators, NDOT, and other key entities to advocate for the initiative.
Conclusion
This briefing underscores the critical need for Nebraska to modernize its CORS Network to align with neighboring states, ensuring economic benefits and operational efficiency for its agricultural sector.
The support from key stakeholders like Guy Mills and Craig Frenzen, along with their respective commodity groups, will be pivotal in advancing this initiative.
