Researchers at Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet have launched a new, higher resolution version of the Digital Arable Land Map, developed in collaboration with Sveriges geologiska undersökning. The updated maps now offer a detailed resolution of 20×20 meters, providing more precise information about topsoil properties across Swedish farmland from Skåne to Hälsingland.The digital maps display soil texture, including the proportions of clay, sand, and silt, as well as soil texture class and estimated organic matter content. A newly added layer showing calculated organic matter levels responds to user demand and enhances the map’s practical value.The updated version was created by modeling data from numerous soil samples combined with satellite data and other measurement sources. For the first time, researchers also incorporated data from the European LUCAS monitoring program to calibrate the models. The map pixels align with Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, making them easier to use in agricultural decision-support systems.The clay content map remains the most widely used layer, helping farmers optimize seeding rates and manage crop production more efficiently. The maps are also valuable for researchers, advisors, and authorities working on soil management, nutrient leakage risk assessments, liming needs, and water retention analysis.Although model-based maps involve some uncertainty, researchers note that accuracy improves when calculating averages for fields, farms, or regions.
Source:Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet
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