BOONE, Iowa — Trimble has introduced the WM-Topo survey system, a portable topographic data collection solution for water management which includes a Trimble Nomad handheld computer and a pole-mounted Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver.

The announcement was made at the Farm Progress Show.

According to Chris van der Loo, marketing manager for Trimble’s Water Management Division, “The real benefit of this solution is to be able to measure points in otherwise difficult to reach areas such as ditch bottoms, steep terrain, muddy fields and mature crop.”

Farmers and drainage and leveling contractors can use the WM-Topo system to collect topographic data across a field that can be transferred to Farm Works Surface software or the FmX integrated display via a USB stick, or wirelessly via Trimble’s Connected Farm solution. The data can then be used to create a 3D model of the field. The WM-Topo system can also be used to calculate the grade between two given points in a field in order to determine the existing slope or check the grade accuracy of newly installed pipe. This information allows users to make better water management decisions.

“From a dealer standpoint, we’ve traditionally sold the water management products and drainage products particular to drainage contractors. However, we are starting to find that farmers are starting to take it upon themselves to do their own water management,” adds van der Loo.

The WM-Topo system can be used as an alternative, or to supplement, survey work previously conducted on the FmX display, providing a more portable option for data collection in terrain that is difficult to access. The system is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2012.

The WM-Topo system is the latest addition to Trimble’s water management product lineup which includes the FieldLevel II system for water management and the WM-Drain farm drainage solution. Since dealers are already selling these solutions, the WM-Topo is an opportunity for them to expand their water management business because it’s utilizing that same display inside the cab.