This project will develop and commercialize improved instrumentation for studies of the emission of the three most important atmospheric greenhouse gases from agricultural production activities…

This project will develop and commercialize improved instrumentation for studies of the emission of the three most important atmospheric greenhouse gases from agricultural production activities (both crop and livestock). The data obtained by these instruments will inform atmospheric and climate models and may provide important information that can be used to optimize agricultural practices to reduce the effects of these gases on climate. The three greenhouse gases that are targeted for measurement are methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide. Agricultural production sites are known to be important sources of these gases. In particular, livestock production is an important contributor to the total methane budget, and nitrogen-based fertilizers are likely the most important source of nitrous oxide emissions to the atmosphere. This research and development project will result in a small, low-weight, and low-power laser instrument that is intended for use on small unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, to survey and characterize the emission of these important greenhouse gases from agricultural sites in real time. The results of such measurements are expected to be useful in adapting agricultural processes for reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, for example, by optimization of fertilization strategies and schedules or in identifying situations where carbon capture may be appropriate.