Documents seen by the Irish Farmers Journal reveal that the European Commission is considering using thermal infrared satellite technology to inspect farms.

The satellite would unearth more data on farms during a remote inspection than is currently possible, with the ability to measure heat and water abstractions. Up to 6,500 satellite inspections already take place on Irish farms every year, but this technology would be extremely accurate, with the ability to pinpoint water stress in plants.

Water Framework Directive

The document, compiled by the European Space Agency, points to the infrared satellite being key in supporting the EU Water Framework Directive, as it will give government authorities the ability to detect groundwater pollution and run-off from farms.

At a global level, the report also cites fears of changing weather patterns, with water expected to become a more precious resource.

While this may be of less concern to some Irish farmers, there is no doubt that the Commission is taking the issue of water very seriously and the Water Framework Directive is crucial to the renewal of the Nitrates Derogation, which many dairy farmers across Ireland depend upon.

Long-term view

In the long-term, the introduction of this technology is proposed for post-2030 and the Commission envisages that increased and improved satellite technology could be used to provide alerts to farmers before a penalty is applied. While details of this alert system have yet to be confirmed, the introduction of thermal technology looks likely.

A European study has already been undertaken, with average farm sizes in each country measured, and experts have suggested that the satellite should be set to measure 30m x 50m distances on farms to provide the most accurate results.