Precision Agriculture Systems May take a Hit from New FCC Regulations
Precision Farming Could Be Influenced by the FCC
If the Fed Communications Commission extends a waiver to a group attempting to implement wireless broadband across the nation, the Worldwide Positioning System as we all know it may be seriously influenced.
A company called LightSquared, which is backed by the Harbinger Capital Partners hedge fund, is working to launch a wireless broadband network. Their goal is to build out a nationwide 4G subordinate terrestrial part (ATC) network that would cover 260 million people in the United States by 2014.
In January, the FCC granted LightSquared a conditional waiver, which enables them to continue with the project in a limited fashion while a working group conducts research to figure out whether the LightSquared network and GPS can coexist with no interference.
This may have a serious impact on many technologies, especially those in precision agriculture that depend on GPS technology for everything from planting seed to the centered application of fertilizer and insecticides on crops. Interference with this technology could result in heavier costs for seed, manure, fuel and ultimately, labor.
“As an organization that represents agricultural areas of West Texas, we understand the necessity for countrywide wireless broadband access,” Fields Cotton Growers, Inc, Executive Vice Chairman Steve Verett announced.”However, it should not be at the cost of so many who could suffer negative effects.”
Together with farming, others influenced by GPS interference would include the United States army, emergency responders, and the aviation industry.
“In addition to the potential implications for agriculture, we are troubled for all GPS technologies,” Verett declared.”While we appreciate what LightSquared is trying to do, there is not yet enough proof that there will be no GPS interference with their technology.”
Verett went on to assert that until it can be undeniably proven that there would be no interference, PCG will not support the FCC’s action and now is in the process of sending off a letter to the FCC.
Firms like John Deere already have sent letters to the FCC, and U.S. Reps. Randy Neugebauer, Collin Peterson, Steve Austria and Ralph Hall co-authored a letter to the FCC requesting the FCC only grant final approval to LightSquared if the company can indisputably demonstrate that their proposal will not meddle with GPS technology.”
A final report is to be submitted by June 15 after which a decision will be made by the FCC regarding the continuation of the LightSquared project.
Agrocheck Global is a consulting firm specializing in Precision Agriculture and Scrapers methods designed to increase rice yields in developing countries
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