CRSMAS Links
Research Highlight
A 3-dimensional model was developed to predict the UV-B and UV-A irradiance for horizontal surfaces
in open canopies. This model can serve as a much-needed tool to examine UV loading of people and
other life in and below tree and other vegetation canopies.
Center of Remote Sensing and Modeling for Agricultural Sustainability
The Center of Remote Sensing and Modeling for Agricultural Sustainability (CRSMAS) in the USDA UV-B Monitoring and Research Program has been conducting research in two areas:
Evaluate response of plants, forests, ecosystems, and animals to UV-B radiation and other climate stress factors.
- The program works with agricultural/forest researchers to evaluate the isolated effects of elevated UV-B on agricultural crops, livestock, forests, and range resources. Furthermore, we assess the combined effects of UV-B radiation and other climate stress factors such as moisture (drought), temperature, ozone, soil nutrients and CO2. By understanding both compounding and antagonistic effects of multiple stress factors, research will help develop solutions that allow producers to cope with these detrimental effects and ensure future agriculture and livestock quality and productivity.
Develop an Integrated Agricultural Impact Assessment System.
- The Integrated Agricultural Impact Assessment System will be capable of achieving credible and quantitative assessments of key stress factors and evaluating alternative cultural practices for sustainable agriculture production. Such a system will be sufficiently comprehensive to include crop growth models, ultraviolet-visible solar radiation, Earth's climate, air and water quality models, and satellite and in-situ observations.