A software for the delineation of crop management zones (SDUM)

Abstract

Agricultural management zones (MZs) are economic and environmentally friendly alternatives for the precision agriculture. However, several analyzes and procedures are required for the delineation of MZs, which is being considered a difficult task. The statistical analysis, selection of variables, generation of thematic maps of the selected variables, generation of MZs (empirical or clustering methods), and evaluation of the applied practices are among routine procedures. In order to facilitate the definition and use of MZs, the aim of this paper was to present a software for delimitation of management zones (SDUM). Therefore, we developed a computer tool developed at and UTFPR to facilitate the generation and evaluation of MZs quickly and easily. The software was developed in Java language and can be run on any operating system. It can be downloaded from http//ppat.md.utfpr.edu.br/sdum/sdum-vm.ova. We performed tests in an experimental area, generating thematic maps of soil attributes and soybean yield. The software delineated and validated MZs, by assessing all functionalities. The statistical analysis, thematic maps, MZs and the results of MZs evaluation were shown through the graphical interfaces of the software, allowing easy interaction for the users.