In-season Nitrogen Mmanagement: Leveraging Data Visualization for Precision Agriculture

Authors

Chathurika Harshani Narayana, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Joe D. Luck

Committee Members

Susan Vanderplas, Yeyin Shi

Date of this Version

1-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

A thesis presented to the faculty of the Graduate College at the University of Nebraska in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Master of Science

Major: Mechanized Systems Management

Under the supervision of Professor Joe D. Luck

Lincoln, Nebraska, January 2025

Comments

Copyright 2025, Chathurika Harshani Narayana. Used by permission

Abstract

Effective nitrogen management is vital for sustainable agriculture, impacting both crop yield and environmental health. Traditional methods often use fixed application rates set before planting, which do not adapt to changing crop needs during the season. This can lead to over- or under-application, reducing efficiency and sustainability. While modern tools like sensors, satellites, and UAVs provide valuable real-time data on crop and field conditions, integrating and using this data to guide timely nitrogen decisions remains a major challenge. In-season nitrogen management offers a solution by allowing for dynamic adjustments to nitrogen applications, addressing crop needs as they arise. This approach optimizes resource efficiency, enhances crop productivity, and reduces environmental risks associated with nitrogen overuse. To improve in-season nitrogen management, the N-SIGHT web application was developed as a user-friendly tool for researchers and agricultural professionals. It uses data visualization to turn complex geospatial and nitrogen treatment data into actionable insights. At its core is the Sufficiency Index (SI), which helps evaluate nitrogen application effectiveness and crop health during the season. By integrating UAV and satellite imagery with field-level nitrogen data, N-SIGHT presents results through interactive maps, plots, and tables. Built on an R Shiny framework, the tool focuses on usability, real-time visualization, and continuous improvement based on feedback from users in the field. By leveraging the capabilities of advanced data visualization, the N-SIGHT application bridges the gap between static nitrogen management strategies and dynamic, data-driven approaches. Its intuitive interface and real-time insights empower farmers, agronomists, and policymakers to make informed decisions, optimize nitrogen applications, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. By reducing inefficiencies in nitrogen use and mitigating environmental impacts, N-SIGHT represents a significant step forward in precision agriculture, enabling the adoption of modern techniques that align with the evolving demands of the agricultural sector.

Advisor: Joe D. Luck