Digital Agroclimatic Plot: An open-field laboratory where technology and agriculture come together to transform farming

The Digital Agroclimatic Plot, located at the Campus Las Américas of the Alliance Bioversity and CIAT in Palmira, Colombia, is an experimental space that integrates Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, soil monitoring sensors, multispectral drones, high-resolution satellite imagery (PlanetScope), and real-time data visualization platforms, enabled through satellite connectivity (such as Starlink). This infrastructure allows for continuous and precise monitoring of key variables related to crops, soil, and climate, such as pH, NPK, temperature, moisture, electrical conductivity, and water table levels, through data transmission networks like LoRaWAN.

Beyond data collection, this field-based laboratory aims to generate processed and contextualized agroclimatic information, which, when combined with advanced modeling techniques and artificial intelligence, facilitates informed decision-making. In doing so, it enables farmers, technicians, and researchers to optimize agronomic management strategies according to the specific agro-environmental conditions at any given time, contributing to a more productive, sustainable, and resilient agriculture in the face of climate variability and change.

Key benefits include the optimization of resource use (such as water and fertilizers), early detection of risks (pests, diseases, water stress), reduction of crop losses, and increased production efficiency through improved timing of agronomic interventions. The plot also supports early warning systems, phenological monitoring, comparative analysis between treatments or plots, and the development of predictive agroclimatic models to anticipate short-term climate impacts.

In addition to its technical and applied functions, the Digital Agroclimatic Plot serves an educational and training purpose, acting as a demonstration laboratory for students, educators, and professionals interested in the use of advanced technologies applied to agriculture. Universities and training centers can use this space to develop competencies in digital agriculture, agroclimatology, and data management, thereby strengthening capacities in key areas for sustainable agricultural development.

Thanks to its adaptable design and evidence-based decision-making orientation, the Plot has strong scalability potential across diverse contexts, crops, and regions in Latin America, promoting the digital transformation of agriculture, food security, rural development, and direct contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Barrios, C.; Amaya, A.; Arce, D.