Project snapshot: Real-time remote sensing-based monitoring for the rice industry

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This project developed a real-time remote sensing system for the Australian rice industry. It helps growers manage rising variability in water supply and seasonal weather. Earlier tools showed general satellite images like NDVI but did not predict key crop traits needed for decisions. This system combines satellite imagery, weather data and machine learning to deliver clear, paddock-level insights across the Riverina.

The platform predicts critical crop factors in real time. These include field boundaries, permanent water dates, phenology stages such as panicle initiation and flowering, nitrogen uptake, growth, yield and grain moisture. Growers access these insights through simple online dashboards. By 2025, more than 85% of rice farms used the system, showing strong uptake across the industry.

Growers use these insights to plan inputs, manage water and improve harvest timing. This leads to better efficiency, higher water productivity and stronger yields. The project also works with Rice Extension to support industry benchmarking. It highlights key drivers of performance, including crop timing and nitrogen use.

In addition, the system supports production forecasts, harvest planning and grain handling, while helping verify sustainability outcomes.

Read the full report here.