Kuvassa kesäinen suomalainen peltomaisema.

GroundTruth

Data-driven methods for a better understanding of soil condition and moisture distribution in agricultural soils

Project information

Project	GroundTruth – Data-driven methods for a better understanding of soil condition and moisture distribution in agricultural soils
Duration	01.04-2026 – 31.12.2028
Partners	Häme University of Applied Sciences, Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), 9 partner companies
Funders	Business Finland Co-Research
Budget	The total budget of the project 853 000 €, of which HAMK’s share 403 000 €

In the joint Co-Research project involving researchers and companies, we are developing moisture measurement integrated into agricultural machinery, which produces data on field moisture as the machinery moves across the field. In addition, we are studying automatic sub-irrigation, in which field drainage systems are used flexibly for water management and irrigation of arable land. The outcome will be solutions that promote sustainable and efficient cultivation.

Security of supply, yield reliability, and resilience, together with climate goals, are fundamental to sustainable food production. Extreme weather events caused by climate change, such as heavy rains and prolonged droughts, reduce the productivity of arable land and the reliability of yields. Managing field drainage and compaction has therefore become critical. Sustainable water management is key: soil aeration and structure can be maintained by drainage, which can also be used to store water for irrigation during dry periods. However, optimal water management requires real-time information about the soil’s moisture status.

The project focuses on two themes: developing a soil moisture measurement method integrated into agricultural machinery, and researching a sub-irrigation method based on controlled drainage. In addition, we are investigating and developing the processing and presentation of collected data in a user-friendly way.

Within the project, we will pilot and test a prototype of a continuous measuring device integrated into field machinery, which enables the validation and further development of microwave-based soil moisture measurement in diverse conditions. The measurement method being developed enables accurate and cost-effective moisture mapping of fields directly during cultivation operations.

Drainage is a common method for drying agricultural land, and controlled drainage is also becoming more widespread. In this project, we are studying automatic sub-irrigation, where drainage is used for flexible water management and irrigation, which helps address challenges such as dry spells and limited irrigation water. Simulation and measurement data will be collected from test fields to assess the practical functionality and limitations of the methods. The combination of modelling and experimental research in the project will provide valuable new knowledge for method development.

Nine partner companies are involved in the project: Senfit Oy, Solmust Oy, No Limits Remote Control Oy, Dataspace Europe Oy, Maveplan Oy, L-S Maatila-Infra, Vaisala Oyj, Gofore Oyj and Lantmännen Agro Oy.

Target group

The project’s main focus is to support the participating companies in their development work. However, the published results will also benefit the wider business sector, research community, and primary agricultural production.

Operating area

The project is nationwide and involves participants from across the country.

Expected outcomes of the project

A prototype of a continuous, microwave-based measuring device integrated into a field machine, whose functionality has been tested under various conditions. The prototype serves as a proof-of-concept for the usability and effectiveness of the new technology in real conditions.
Validation results of the device installed on moving machinery for different soil types and field conditions. Validation results and calibration curves based on scientific research and laboratory measurements.
Reported research results on data-driven methods for modelling the hydrological properties of fields. These results are a significant step towards spatial moisture modelling at field parcel level, enabling users to access real-time information on moisture distribution across the entire field.
Implementation of test fields for research and development of the sub-irrigation method based on controlled drainage at Mustiala (HAMK) and Jokioinen (Luke). These test fields will remain available for research and development in the sector even after the project ends.
Published research and measurement results from the controlled drainage and related sub-irrigation system experiments.
Prototype digital interfaces visualising measurement-based data for users, for example on a map basis. The prototypes will be implemented without linking to a single manufacturer’s technology, ensuring broad applicability.

News and Updates

Read more about the project’s progress here.

HAMK was awarded a total of €1.4 million in funding from Business Finland’s Co-Research call for the development of bioeconomy and metal industry. The news about the funding was published on HAMK’s website on 25.03.26 and also gained visibility in the local press. You can read the release from the link below.

The project’s launch announcement (in Finnish)

Check out HAMK’s social media channels focusing on research!