Chlorophyll content is a widely used parameter for nutritional status diagnosis in sugarcane. This study aimed to develop a predictive model of chlorophyll content in sugarcane seedlings using spectral imagery analysis within the electromagnetic spectrum visible range. The experiment was carried out in a split-plot design, with two fertilization rates and three sugarcane cultivars. For chlorophyll analysis, 144 leaves were collected from seedlings. Chlorophyll contents were extracted and measured by SPAD-502 meter. Spectral images within the range of 480 to 710 nm were analyzed using reflectance, absorbance (white source), and fluorescence (source at 405 and 470 nm) responses. Predictive models were developed using multivariate regression methods such as Principal Component Regression and Partial Least Squares Regression. We chose the best model through absorbance response using variable selection and the PLSR method (R2P = 0.718 and RMSEP = 7.665). The wavelengths of 480, 490, 500, 600, 630, and 640 nm were identified as the best for total chlorophyll content determination. The spectral image processing-based method can provide a chlorophyll measurement equivalent to SPAD, with the advantage of having a higher spatial coverage over the entire leaf area. Besides, it can also support automation of the chlorophyll measurement in greenhouses.

An oil exploration and development project actually began with a detailed plan to protect the sensitive surrounding environment. This process involved prediction of potential spill trajectories, identification of threatened sensitive areas, development of tactical plans to protect those areas, purchasing the equipment necessary to protect sensitive areas, training local responders (including indigenous peoples) to respond safely and effectively. This project required full use of the latest technology and data sources (Geographic Information Systems, satellite imagery, GPS, hydrodynamic modeling, and aerial photography). However, the technology was combined with practical local knowledge of the area, supplemented by fieldwork, to develop realistic response strategies and expectations. The combination resulted in a Tactical Response Plan in an easy-to-use, graphical format. Each tactic described in the plan identified the response resources (equipment and personnel) needed to implement the tactic. A survey was conducted to identify needed response resources available in the local area. Essential resources, which were not immediately available, were procured and staged at critical locations. Training was provided to teach local workers and residents how to use the plan, as well as how to deploy the equipment to protect their environment. These local people have proven themselves invaluable in effecting an early and effective response, due to their knowledge of the area. The results of this effort have included:Increased protection of a sensitive environment prior to oil activities;Heightened prevention, due to increased awareness of risks;Improved community/local relations by proactive involvement;Computerized maps which are useful for numerous operational purposes;The knowledge that you have "done the right thing" in a cost-effective manner; The cost of this project was surprisingly small, due to the availability of information from many organizations that willingly cooperate in this type of effort. The rest of this paper details the steps required to achieve this level of preparation in other sensitive areas where oil has the nasty habit of being found. Steps for Protecting the Environment Identify Area of Interest This process begins by defining where a spill, or other incident could originate. In this case, the location of proposed drilling, production, barges, and pipelines may be located. The type, size, and risk of potential spills was identified to define scenarios for which planning should be perfomed. (see Figures 1 and 2)

No abstract