Organisers say that so far 10 countries are represented and they want more! Total cash prizes of €13,000 are on offer in the ‘Farming by Satellite Prize' for the best success stories or new ideas submitted by 15 December 2016. But as a first step, all entrants must register their details by the 30 October deadline at the prize website: www.farmingbysatellite.eu

The prize is an initiative of the European GNSS Agency and the European Environment Agency. It is sponsored by CLAAS, a leading manufacturer of agricultural engineering equipment, and crop protection experts Bayer CropScience.

The aim of the competition is to promote the use of satellite navigation in agriculture and its benefits to end users. Entrants must be under the age of 32 and can take part as individuals or as a team. They can submit case studies of trials, or new ideas and innovations, particularly those relying upon European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), the forthcoming GALILEO system and COPERNICUS (the European Earth Observation Programme).

Gian-Gherardo Calini, Head of Market Development at the GSA says: “We are looking for imaginative solutions that employ ‘free' satellite technology that can help all the world's farmers. We anticipate entries from commercial teams as well as students of agriculture, horticulture and life sciences. This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to get great exposure for their ideas with leading companies and academics, the prize has led to employment opportunities for previous winners and shortlisted teams.”

Full details on the competition are available at www.farmingbysatellite.eu.