Fast Pasture Classification Method using Ground-based Camera and the Modified Green Red Vegetation Index (MGRVI)

The assessment of aboveground biomass is important for achieving rational usage pasture resources and maximizing the quantity quality milk meat production. This study presents a method fast approximation pastures’ biomass. Unlike most similar studies, which rely on unmanned aerial vehicle satellite obtained data, this focuses photos made by stationary or mobile ground-based visual spectrum camera. developed methodology uses raster analysis, based MGRVI index, in order to classify into two categories: “grazed” “ungrazed”. Thereafter, accounts perspective obtain actual area each class square meters percent. was applied an experimental pasture, located near city Troyan (Bulgaria). Two images were selected, with first one representing mostly ungrazed second – grazed one. Thereafter analyzed using QGIS 3.0 as well specially software tool. An advantage proposed that it does not require expensive equipment technological knowledge, relies commonly available tools, such camera phones.