GIS-course 2025 at ZALF

Müncheberg – From January 27 to 30, 2025, a practice-oriented training course on the use of geodata and remote sensing in agriculture took place at the Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF). The event, offered as part of the junior research group SoilRob at ZALF, was aimed at farmers, agricultural advisors, stakeholders from the agricultural sector, and students. A total of 24 participants attended. The training was co-developed by lecturer Brit Weier from the Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences as part of the digital experimental field AgriSens-DEMMIN 4.0.

The training provided participants with an application-oriented introduction to working with modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the use of remote sensing data to make agricultural processes more efficient. Using QGIS, a free and open-source GIS software, participants learned how to work with geodata that is essential for sustainable and precise agriculture.

Overview of the Modules Covered:
The training consisted of seven modules, offering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills:

• Module 1: Introduction to QGIS for Farmers and Agricultural Stakeholders

• Module 2: Use of Remote Sensing Data in QGIS

• Module 3: Application of Yield Mapping Data in Practical Farming

• Module 4: Optimization of Soil Sampling in Agricultural Fields

• Module 5: Creation of Application Maps

• Module 6: Conducting Field Trials Using QGIS

• Module 7: Path Planning for Field Robotics
  
  

Background:

The training equipped participants with essential knowledge on how geodata and remote sensing technologies can be applied in modern agriculture. Geodata, collected via satellites or drones, provides valuable insights into soil conditions and yield potential. By using such technologies, farms can optimize production, use resources more efficiently, and operate in a more environmentally friendly way.

Through this training, ZALF and Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences are making an important contribution to helping farmers and agricultural stakeholders in Brandenburg prepare for the future challenges of agriculture. The combination of theory and hands-on practice ensures that participants can directly apply their newly acquired knowledge in their daily work.

Outlook and Further Information:

This successful training represents an important step in promoting digitization and precision agriculture. Future events and advanced training courses are already being planned. Interested parties can find more information on the websites of ZALF, the BMBF-funded SoilRob project, and Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences.

Contact:

Dr. agr. Kathrin Grahmann
Email: kathrin.grahmann@zalf.de
Phone: 033432 82 142
Webseite: www.zalf.de; www.soilrob.de