The application of remotely sensed (Landsat TM) data to monitor growth and predict yields in sugarcane.

Remotely sensed data from the Thematic Mapper (TM) multi-spectral scanner on-board the Landsat 5 satellite are collected every sixteen days over Queensland. Under a Sugar Research Council grant, a method of combining these data with computerised farm maps was developed to enable accurate identification of crop areas and subsequent data retrieval for individual blocks of cane. The spectral signature of mature cane on Bundaberg Sugar Company (BSC) plantations between 1986-1988 is illustrated and discussed. There are distinct differences between the spectral signatures of mature cane and of harvested areas. Remotely sensed data, correlated with ground observations, could be incorporated in a Geographic Information System to provide information on the current status of sugarcane crops and changes in their condition.