Agronomist with tablet in field analyzing crop data

Agronomist uses tablet in the field to monitor crop data and optimize agricultural management.

About this subject

The agronomist plays a central role in modern agriculture, combining technical knowledge and digital tools to increase productivity and sustainability. In the field, tablets and specialized software allow real-time recording of variables such as soil moisture, vegetation index (NDVI), pests, and crop phenological stage. This practice, known as precision agriculture, reduces input waste and improves decision-making.

In Brazil, the world's largest exporter of soybeans, coffee, and sugar, the adoption of digital technologies in agribusiness is growing rapidly. According to Embrapa, about 30% of rural properties already use some form of digital agriculture tool. The agronomist is the professional responsible for interpreting this data and recommending actions such as localized irrigation, variable-rate pesticide application, and harvest planning.

The scene takes place in the late afternoon, a common time for field assessments after peak heat, when light conditions allow better visualization of plant symptoms. The tablet replaces notebooks and printed maps, integrating with GPS systems and drones. This digital transformation not only increases efficiency but also attracts young people to the sector, who see agronomy as a career with a strong technological base.

Curiosity: the first agricultural tablet was developed in the 1990s in the United States, but only with the popularization of smartphones and mobile internet in Brazil, from 2010 onwards, did the tool spread among small and medium-sized producers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an agronomist do in the field?

They monitor crop conditions, collect data on soil, pests, and weather, and advise producers on management, input use, and sustainable practices to maximize productivity.

How does the tablet help in precision agriculture?

The tablet enables real-time data recording, access to soil maps and satellite imagery, and use of apps that calculate localized fertilizer and pesticide doses, reducing costs and environmental impacts.

Why is digital agriculture important in Brazil?

Digital agriculture increases resource efficiency, improves production traceability, and contributes to sustainability, being essential to maintain the competitiveness of Brazilian agribusiness in the global market.