What is agrometeorology?
Agrometeorology is defined as the study of the influence of the weather on plants and animals. Its ultimate goals are increased agricultural productivity. These objectives are achieved through the efficient application of climate and satellite data in both developed and developing countries.
What must the agricultural meteorologist do to achieve these goals?
- Effective irrigation during times of drought or for conditions of limited water supply, the agricultural meteorologist is able to use weather data to determine the water requirements of plants in advance to ensure optimal economic yields under irrigation.
- Drought analysis. The agricultural meteorologist is able to scientifically identify drought stricken areas and quantify the severity of a drought with the aid of satellite and surface weather data.
- Farming strategies. The climatic risk of crop or livestock production can be determined with the aid of computer models. This information is of great value to agricultural advisors for deciding on the most appropriate management and cultivation strategies to suit given climate and soil conditions.
- Combatting weather hazards. Continuous monitoring of the climate and analysis of weather data enables the meteorologist to provide farmers with advance warning of impending diseases and hail or frost damage. This gives farmers an opportunity to take appropriate preventative measures.
In order to successfully execute the tasks listed above, both thorough theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge gained through operational experience are required. Climate Science at the UFS offers well-planned courses and curricula. These provide excellent instruction and training at both under-graduate and post-graduate levels.
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