EM and Gamma Radiometric Soil Sensors are Crucial Tools for the Successful Adoption of Precision Agriculture Techniques in Western Australia's Weathered Soils
Tracks
| Monday, July 21, 2025 |
| 12:20 PM - 12:32 PM |
Overview
Speaker
Aidan Sinnott
Director
VRT Solutions
EM and Gamma Radiometric Soil Sensors are Crucial Tools for the Successful Adoption of Precision Agriculture Techniques in Western Australia's Weathered Soils
Abstract
Certain aspects of Precision Agriculture rely on detailed maps as a solution to a spatially variable problem. Soil characterization to enhance crop performance and promote agronomic and environmental sustainability is a strong motivation, however economic margins often drive landowners towards spatial recognition or identification of soil types and physical and chemical contraints. In Western Australia’s highly weathered soils, especially within the southwest land division, integrating electromagnetic (EM) induction and gamma radiometric sensors is critical for the successful adoption of precision agriculture techniques. EM induction surveys rapidly provide high-resolution data on soil properties such as conductivity, moisture content, and texture. This information enables the detection of subtle spatial variations, supporting tailored management practices that optimize ameliorant and fertilizer application. Complementarily, gamma radiometric sensors measure natural radioisotope emissions to reveal essential insights into soil mineralogy and weathering processes. These insights help identify nutrient-rich zones and physical constraints, further refining soil management strategies. By merging data from both sensor types, farmers can develop a comprehensive understanding of field variability, facilitating precise interventions that improve resource efficiency and economic and environmental outcomes. This integrated approach bridges cutting-edge sensor technology with practical agricultural variable rate applications, empowering farmers to overcome soil variability challenges and adapt to market demands with greater confidence.
Biography
Aidan Sinnott is the founder and director of VRT Solutions, a Western Australian company specializing in precision agriculture. With a BSc (Hons) in Analytical Science from Dublin City University, Aidan brings over 15 years of experience in applying advanced geospatial technologies to broadacre farming systems. Since establishing VRT Solutions in 2018, he has led the integration of electromagnetic (EM) induction and gamma radiometric soil mapping with ground breaking and progressive methods in soil sampling, yield data analysis, and variable rate prescription development. Grower knowledge is improved through the company's development of an intuitive and easy to use software program, Spectare. The targets for the company are firmly set on optimizing input efficiency, crop performance, and supporting sustainable land management across the diverse agricultural landscapes in Western Australia and beyond.
VRT Solutions has become a trusted partner for growers seeking data-driven agronomic solutions. The company’s services include high-resolution soil surveys, elevation and drainage mapping, biomass analysis through satellite imagery, and the creation of tractor-ready variable rate application maps. Aidan is also an active contributor to industry knowledge, presenting at events such as GRDC Business Updates, Crop Updates, SPAA Precision Ag Expo, SPAA Precision Ag Symposium, and many regional grower-focussed workshops and field days. His commitment to innovation and collaboration continues to advance the role of precision agriculture in improving profitability and environmental stewardship in Western Australia's grain-growing regions.
