About CAPIGI
The “Community on Agricultural Policy Implementation and Geo Information” (CAPIGI) started in 2005. Wageningen University and Research centre, the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture and Esri Europe together started the initiative to share and discuss the advances of geo-information applications in the implementation of agricultural policies in Europe.
The first CAPIGI conference took place in 2005. Six years, four CAPIGI conferences, and several workshops further CAPIGI has become a true network of experts in geo-information and agriculture working in government agencies, science and industry.
Spatial Data Quality
Land Parcel Identification Systems (LPIS) and control activities (both with Remote Sensing and on the spot) play an important role in the regulations in the European Common Agricultural Policy. It’s impact goes beyond agriculture, as it will include rural development aspects and the control on environmental measures through the cross compliance. Assessing the quality of the reference systems has become of major concern. New methods are required to deal with the increased complexity surrounding the reference systems and to assure the quality required by the regulations.
On Farm Data
Every farmer in Europe is confronted with maps of his farm and fields for his annual application of EU income support and agri-environmental measures. At the same time, precision agriculture, logistics, and production concerns have boosted the use of on-farm spatial data. Farm management systems are getting ‘spatially aware’ and the GPS tracks from tractors and machines are integrated in decision-making processes. How can governments benefit from on farm spatial data in their processes? What can be the role of farmers in quality assurance of national geo- spatial datasets?
Sensing Systems in Agriculture
Emerging sensing systems, both remote and close range, provide information on the situation of the crop during the growing season. Effects of soil properties, sowing and crop management are reflected in biomass maps and yield maps. Emerging platforms and sensors provide new opportunities in advice and optimisation of agricultural production. Their integrated application is necessary but not straight forward. Are these techniques also applicable in the control of nature subsidies, cross compliance and other use?