Canopy height measurements and non‐destructive biomass estimation of Lolium perenne swards using UAV imagery

Abstract

Grasslands deliver important economic and ecological services. They provide a substantial fraction of the ruminant feed require‐ ments, prevent soil erosion, build soil fertility, require minimal pesti‐ cide use and are important for carbon sequestration (Lugato, Bampa, Panagos, Montanarella, & Jones, 2015; O’Mara, 2012; Wilkins & Humphreys, 2003). In Northwest Europe, Lolium perenne L. (perennial ryegrass, Lp) is one of the most frequently sown forage grass species because of its rapid establishment and growth, high yield potential and excellent feed quality (Humphreys, Feuerstein, Vandewalle, & Baert, 2010). These valuable (agro) services must be safeguarded. Received: 03 January 2019 | Revised: 18 April 2019 | Accepted: 03 June 2019 DOI: 10.1111/gfs.12439