Developing variable rate application technology: economic impact for farm owners and topdressing operators

The use of variable rate application technology on topdressing aircraft is now technically possible. Its uptake will be determined by the economic benefit to the farmers and pricing structure for aerial operators. The economic impact of six fertiliser spreading scenarios were examined at a case study farm. Farm operating costs were considered under each of the scenarios and the economic consequences calculated. Variable rate application was found to be financially viable, both in terms of maximising return per hectare and increasing fertiliser use efficiency. Under the most productive scenario, the farm was modelled to provide a 26% higher cash surplus per hectare than it is currently modelled to achieve. This was due to the system's ability to match the supply of nutrient to the pasture's nutrient demand across varying topography, resulting in an increased economic output for the farm. The cost of implementing such a system was not prohibitive and would provide aircraft operators the opportunity to add value to the services they provide, while improving their own business sustainability.