UNIT 4 – SIMULATED DASHBOARD ACTIVITY

Below is a sample dashboard with soil moisture (%) and temperature (°C) data for two fields.

Review the data and consider how you would develop an irrigation plan.

Steps for Analysis

1. Interpret the moisture levels

A typical threshold for many crops is around 30 % soil moisture. Below this value, irrigation may be needed.

2. Consider temperature

Higher temperatures increase evaporation, meaning soil dries out faster.

3. Develop an irrigation plan

For example:

Sample plan:
“I will irrigate Field A for 20 minutes when soil moisture drops below 30 %. Field B is currently above 40 %, so no irrigation is needed until it falls below 30 %.”

Model Irrigation Plan (for Self-Assessment)

Field A:
Moisture is 28 %, below the 30 % threshold. Plan to irrigate for 20 minutes (or enough to raise soil moisture to approximately 40 %) and re-check in 24 hours.

Field B:
Moisture is 45 %, well above the threshold. No irrigation needed now; monitor and irrigate only when moisture falls below 30 %.

Considerations for Installing IoT Sensors

Question

What are two considerations for installing IoT sensors on a small farm?

Reflect on practical and technical factors before reviewing the model answers below.

Model Answers (for Self-Assessment)

Cost and scalability:
Sensors and data plans can be expensive. Small farms should start with a limited number of sensors and expand as benefits are realised.

Connectivity and power:
IoT devices require internet access or cellular coverage to transmit data. Ensure your farm has reliable connectivity and consider power sources (battery, solar).

Placement and maintenance:
Place sensors at representative locations (different soil types, elevations). Regularly check and calibrate sensors to ensure accurate data.