Proximal Sensors: A New Tool in the Toolbelt of the Modern Consultant.

Proximal sensors have rapidly evolved over the last two decades as a rapid source of data for soils analysis. Many different types of proximal sensors exist to include electromagnetic induction (EMI), laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and portable X-ray fluorescence (PXRF). Each of these sensor systems provides unique data useful to a number of environmental quality, agronomy, and soil science applications. Recently, combinations of several types of proximal sensor data have been shown even more powerful than one sensor used in isolation. Many of these sensor systems are also available for rental, such that an individual consultant can still use them on a cost effective basis. This presentation will provide an overview of some of the major uses of proximal soil sensors, especially as they relate to agronomic and environmental consulting. Collectively, they provide robust data at a lower cost and with faster throughput than traditional laboratory analysis.