What is the initial situation in Reconquista?
We manage around 120 hectares under two pivot systems. On these fields, we cultivate different crops and analyze both homogeneous and heterogeneous soils in order to obtain scientifically sound comparative data.
Why did you decide to implement Cosmofield?
Traditional methods such as gravimetric sampling or point sensors are labour-intensive and cover only very small areas. Cosmofield measures soil moisture non-invasively and over a large area of 5 to 10 hectares. This represents a major advantage for both research and practical application.
How did the installation process go?
It was very straightforward. The system was ready for operation immediately. After just one week, we already had usable data; with calibration, this was possible within as little as six hours. This allows us to make early comparisons between different plots.
What impact does this have on irrigation?
We can now determine precisely when crops actually need water. In the past, we applied around 8 mm on a fixed 48 hour cycle. Today, irrigation decisions are data driven – sometimes earlier, sometimes later. This significantly reduces monitoring effort and the risk of over- or under-irrigation.
How do you assess system maintenance?
Cosmofield is very user-friendly. It is a non-invasive system that does not need to be removed and does not require recalibration when changing crops. It remains stable regardless of soil salinity or soil structure.
What are the next steps?
We plan to integrate additional fields and compare irrigation strategies for different crops. The goal is to establish long term water budgets and develop scientifically sound recommendations for practical farming. Cosmofield provides a reliable data foundation for this purpose.
