As part of the project, comprehensive field, meteorological and remote sensing studies were conducted. The key activities and results obtained are presented below
Scope of completed research
Field measurements:
During the project, field campaigns were regularly carried out at 47 test fields in Poland (Wielkopolska and Podlaskie provinces) and at 18 test fields in Norway. These included detailed measurements of soil and plant parameters such as soil moisture, fresh and dry biomass, and vegetation indices.
Meteorological measurements:
Meteorological data, acquired regularly from both weather stations and ERA5 reanalyses available through the Copernicus Climate Data Store program provided by ECMWF, were used for the project.
Remote sensing analysis:
The study was supplemented by analyses of vegetation indices (including LAI and NDVI) derived from satellite data from the Copernicus program. Correlation analyses were carried out, which showed high agreement between satellite data and field measurements, confirming their high value in monitoring plant growth.
Biomass growth models:
Based on field, meteorological and remote sensing data, grass biomass growth models were developed and calibrated. The models took into account various environmental scenarios, such as water stress, winter conditions and drought, which allowed accurate prediction of biomass growth dynamics under varying climatic conditions.
Key findings:
Comprehensive database: A comprehensive database covering three full growing seasons was created, including detailed information from field, meteorological and satellite measurements. This database provides a solid foundation for further research and analysis.
Vegetation indicators: High correlation between satellite indicators (NDVI, LAI) and actual biomass was demonstrated, confirming the effectiveness of using remote sensing in monitoring plant growth.
Calibration and application of models: Biomass growth models were successfully calibrated, which enabled their practical application to analyze environmental conditions in Poland and Norway.
Practical tools: Tools for monitoring grass growth and vegetation conditions have been developed that can support farmers in making grassland management decisions.
Summary: All project tasks have been carried out in accordance with the objectives set forth in the contract with NCRD. The results of the project underscore its relevance to both science and agricultural practice, and its implementation can contribute to more effective grassland management through better data-driven decision-making.