Background Upon inspection of an IKONOS image taken late in the season, a Montana rancher noticed dense vegetation in an area of pasture that should have had very little vegetation. Further inspection of the area confirmed that the vegetation was weed growth, including snowberry bush, an inedible plant that is considered poisonous. Because of the rocky terrain, a ground control program would not be feasible. After weighing his options, the rancher decided it would be most beneficial to purchase an ultralight aircraft and spray the field himself rather than contracting a spraying company.

 Use of DataBy using the 2001 IKONOS imagery the rancher was able to locate a 10 acre control area for test spraying (Figure 1). Before his 2002 IKONOS image was acquired, he sprayed the control area in the early spring of 2002. Using his power parachute equipped with a broad-jet spraying system he applied 1 gallon per acre. The swaths that were sprayed are visible in the 2002 IKONOS image taken afterwards (Figure 2), and demonstrate the effectiveness of the actions taken. The rancher stated, "The value of the satellite photos is very obvious in this project. Without access, it would be very difficult to measure the progress of the spraying. The images are also invaluable for determining where to spray next."

 Economic and Environmental Benefits In 2002, estimates of land values were at $200 per acre, so 20 gallons should recover $4000 worth of pasture. Deducting the cost of spraying of $10 per acre brings a net value of $3800. In time the rancher will start making up for the costs of the sprayer equipment and begin to realize a profit from his operations. In addition, eradicating the snowberry bush increases the quality of the pasture for cattle grazing.