Smart-N technology to reduce nitrogen fertiliser inputs on dairy farms

Whole farm systems analysis from the WFSAM project

Smart-N technology uses optical sensors to detect nitrogen-rich zones in order to avoid application of liquid nitrogen to these areas, thereby reducing fertiliser use. In dairy systems, urine and dung patches on pasture can reach a nitrogen loading of 1000 kg N ha-1. Researchers examined the application of Smart-N technology to reduce nitrogen application and greenhouse gas emissions on four Tasmanian dairy farms.

Fertiliser application was reduced by 30-40% with no impact on pasture production. A 30% reduction in fertiliser use would save a typical Tasmanian dairy farm $10,000 / annum in fertiliser costs. If the technology was adopted as a CFI / ERF method, the emissions mitigation income would be $1,150 (at a carbon price of $23 / t CO₂-e).

Primary researchers

• Karen Christie, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture
• Richard Rawnsley, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture

More information

• View all publications related to the whole farm systems analysis and modelling (WFSAM) project
• View the WFSAM project page.