Collect Stronger Data with Enhanced Learning Blocks
ProVantage, our precision ag platform, gives growers the tools to manage inputs as well as collect, organize, and digest data on their acres more effectively. Growers can then use this data to help make management decisions that maximize efficiency and drive profitability. Beyond the value of data collection and organization, a powerful component of ProVantage is the ability to conduct research trials on your own acres, on issues/opportunities that pertain specifically to your operation.
Enhanced Learning Blocks
Enhanced Learning Blocks, or ELBs, run a complete scientific research trial right in your field, which builds a stronger database. An ELB is typically two to five acres, depending on the trial size. ELBs prove cause and effect since the number of variables is minimized for the trial. Within the ELB, the trial is replicated and randomized to give us proven, scientific data we can be confident in. Some common variables to test in an ELB include N, P, K or fungicide rate; planting population; and on/off replication for inputs.
For example, if you want to test planting populations in an ELB, the area would be broken into various zones, each getting a different planting population. On/off replications compare efficacy of applying a product versus going without. This can test if fungicide pays. Meaning some areas of the ELB would get the intended rate of fungicide, while others get no fungicide. After ELB yield results are collected, we turn that raw data into more digestible information. We then help growers review the results and identify what worked, what didn’t, and potential action plans for next year.
The key to the proper execution of an ELB is to minimize the variables. If you are testing the planting population, it is important to have the same seed variety and seed treatment, as well as planting and harvesting the entire ELB area on the same dates. Ideally, fertilizer should also be flat rated in the ELB to reduce variability. When variables cannot be eliminated, the goal is to keep them as consistent as possible; having uniform soil types or VRT fertilizer within the ELB is a common example of this. We can place multiple ELBs within a field but having consistent soil types across the ELBs can be a limiting variable in these trials.
Since your farm’s data is considerably more valuable than information from a university hundreds of miles away, the Enhanced Learning Block is a powerful tool when executed correctly. By minimizing your variables, you can collect stronger data to help make more confident decisions for your operation.