Acquisition of low altitude digital imagery for local monitoring and management of genetic resources

This study illustrates the use of spatial information with high spatial resolution digital images to monitor the growth and development of crops in research plots and under commercial management. A robust and cost-effective technology to generate information endogenously from low altitude aerial imagery is described, and examples of applications in common beans and bananas are presented. Images were acquired using a standard commercial digital or SLR camera lifted by a kite or balloon. The optimum camera settings varied with conditions. The feasibility of correcting for distortions in the images and calibration of the sensor was explored, but it was not possible to automatically correct images and standardize the radiometric parameters over a range of conditions. Nevertheless, a combination of automated and visual analysis of the images obtained provided a means of classifying and quantifying various aspects of crop growth and development. This information was shown to be related to various bean and banana growth characteristics and can be used to predict bean yields and to estimate plant growth related parameters in banana plantations. The information is readily understood and, due to the robustness of the technology at a budget price, the methodology is a potentially powerful way of generating and providing information to local managers of genetic and natural resources as well as to owners of commercial plantations.