Pasture Readings Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Find answers about satellite flyover frequency, image resolution, NDVI usage, cloud interference, pasture reading frequency, and global availability.
Satellite Image Technology
How frequently do the satellites fly over?
The Ultimate add-on has near-daily satellite flyovers, while the Essential add-on has satellite flyovers approximately every 5 days, depending on your location.
It’s important to note that a satellite flyover does not always result in a usable image. Usable imagery depends on factors such as cloud cover, image quality, and local conditions. This means a near-daily flyover does not guarantee a usable image every day, and a 5-day flyover cycle does not guarantee a usable image every 5 days.
What is the resolution of the imagery?
The satellite images have a resolution of up to 3 square metres per pixel in the Ultimate add-on. The resolution is up to 10 square metres per pixel in the Essential add-on.
Do you use NDVI to calculate pasture covers?
Yes, we do. NDVI is one of many indices that are a crucial part of Pio’s machine learning models, but we also incorporate other management records to refine the readings along with local weather data and a few proprietary spatial datasets.
Do clouds get in the way?
Cloud cover can interfere with usable imagery. When a usable satellite image is not available, Pio may use modelling to estimate pasture cover and growth rates, helping provide continuity between satellite-backed readings.
How often are pasture readings taken?
Satellite-backed readings depend on factors such as cloud cover and image quality. Where a usable satellite reading is not available, Pasture.io’s cloudy-days model "Pio" may generate platform estimates.
How do you deal with objects in paddocks?
Pio is designed to identify and reduce the effect of non-pasture objects where possible, helping improve the usefulness of paddock readings.
Remote Measuring Consistency
How do you overcome the issues of imagery?
We use advanced statistical algorithms and machine learning to turn your data into meaningful metrics. Pio uses farm records, weather, satellite imagery, and modelling to better align readings with your farm over time.
How consistent is remote measuring?
Pio is designed to provide consistent paddock-level trends over time. Manual readings can still be useful as an on-farm reference, especially when conditions are unusual or when setting up a new farm.
Farming Systems and Regions
Does the Pasture.io platform and remote measuring work outside of Australia and New Zealand?
We support farmers globally, wherever grass grows. Contact us for assistance with setting up your farm.
Does the remote measuring work with dryland and irrigated pastures?
Pio can support both dryland and irrigated systems, but reading quality and model performance can vary depending on conditions, records, pasture type, and image availability.
Does the remote measuring work with different species?
Yes, our models are dynamic and adapt to various pasture species and conditions. If you’re measuring forage crops like lucerne, millet, oats, maize, sorghum, etc., we’re keen to hear your feedback as we develop this feature.
What information should I expect from the service?
You’ll receive regular pasture covers, growth rates for individual paddocks, pasture forecasts, and leaf emergence models, all integrated into the Pasture.io app. Plus, you get the full suite of Pasture.io tools for optimal farm management.
Additional Questions and Answers
How easy is it to get started with Pasture.io?
It’s very simple! Just sign up, and our customer success team will help you set up and get the most out of our platform.
What kind of support do I get with my subscription?
You get comprehensive support, including onboarding assistance, ongoing help from our customer success team, and access to detailed resources and tutorials.
Can I try the service before committing?
Yes, you can trial the app. The satellite add-ons, however, are part of our premium service and require an annual subscription. We’ve invested heavily in creating a leading satellite-backed pasture reading tool, and our premium data providers require us to commit to annual contracts.
What happens if I have technical issues?
Our dedicated support team is here to help you with any technical issues you might encounter. Just reach out, and we’ll get you back on track quickly.
Can I integrate Pasture.io with other farm management tools?
Yes, Pasture.io is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of farm management tools. Contact us for specific integration queries.