MoistureMap Explained

MoistureMap is our proprietary process that uses non-destructive, ground penetrating radar (along with very accurate GPS positioning) to take many readings of subsurface volumetric moisture content over a large area and range of depths.  Measurements rely on the occurrence of discrete objects, like pieces of gravel or cobble, irrigation pipes or drainage tile, roots or anything else that is significantly different from the surrounding soil.  In essence, each object acts like a passive sensor that we can derive moisture content from once or many times as long as they remain in place.  The glaring question with this is, how do we know there will be discrete objects in the subsurface?  Well, we don’t always know for sure that there will be, but overwhelmingly, the chances are that there will be many.  So, how does this methodology fit into the framework of irrigation planning and other monitoring methods?  The MoistureMap method provides a snapshot of the subsurface moisture variation over the surveyed area.  This snapshot can inform decisions about irrigation planning, or if already in place, irrigation effectiveness.  Also, this snapshot can provide a roadmap for the strategic placement of long-term monitoring equipment, which is far too expensive to deploy in dense arrays. 

Full profile from the soccer field (~goal to goal) with many hyperbolas present. Selected hyperbolas have green triangles associated.