FINAL CONSIDE RATIONS

Both the rising plate meter (RPM) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) provide valuable insights for assessing available forage and managing grazing systems. However, they differ in several aspects, which can influence your choice based on your needs and resources. The RPM is a simple, handheld device that is easy to use in the field. You can directly measure the forage mass in your paddocks without needing advanced technological knowledge. In contrast, NDVI data is usually derived from satellite or drone imagery, and requires additional processing and interpretation making it less user-friendly you are not familiar with the technology.

Using the RPM requires minimal technological knowledge, as it involves taking direct measurements in the field. On the other hand, using NDVI data effectively necessitates a more advanced understanding of remote sensing, image processing and data interpretation. For RPM, you need to purchase the device and may require some initial training, but no additional expertise is needed. In the case of NDVI, you may need to invest in remote sensing imagery and software, or you may need to hire a GIS consultant or specialist to help with data interpretation and analysis.

The RPM provides direct measurements of forage mass, which can be more accurate than NDVI data when used appropriately. However, NDVI can provide a broader overview of forage productivity across an entire paddock or farm allowing for the identification of patterns and trends that may not be easily detected through RPM measurements alone.

In conclusion, both RPM and NDVI offer advantages for assessing and managing grazing systems. The choice between these tools will depend on your needs, resources and level of technological expertise. The RPM offers simplicity and direct measurements, while NDVI provides a comprehensive, large-scale perspective on forage productivity.