Submitted to: Crop Science
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/6/2026
Publication Date: 3/9/2026
Citation: Corak, K.E., Courtney, C., Ellerbrock, B., Kamath, P., Manching, H.K., Poland, J., Neilsen, M., Hulse-Kemp, A.M., Rife, T. 2026. GeoNav: enhancing field phenotyping with high-precision global navigation systems integration in the Field Book mobile application. Crop Science. https://doi.org/10.1002/csc2.70254.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/csc2.70254

Interpretive Summary: Field data collection is essential in plant breeding to develop better crop varieties. However, accurately linking data to the correct field plots can be difficult, especially in large experiments. This study introduces new tools in the Field Book app that integrate high-accuracy geospatial technology to improve data collection. A new Global Navigation Satellite System geospatial data format and a navigation feature help researchers find and record data at the correct plot locations. A test in a peach orchard showed that the tool improved efficiency and accuracy in data collection. This advancement enhances the precision and ease of fieldwork for plant breeding programs.

Technical Abstract: Field data collection is a key activity in plant breeding, underpinning efforts to develop crop varieties with improved yields, disease resistance, and climate adaptability. Accurately associating data with the correct field plots is critical for selection and genetic improvement but can be challenging, especially in large experiments. We report the integration of external Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers into the Field Book application, a widely used tool for recording field data. We introduce a new GNSS trait format for capturing geospatial data, along with a GeoNavigation (GeoNav) feature that guides researchers through fields by automatically identifying and navigating to the nearest plot based on their location. These improvements allow researchers to collect and navigate geospatial information while recording trait data, significantly reducing the risk of associating that data with the wrong plot. To demonstrate the utility of this tool, we performed a case study in a mature peach orchard and show how the GeoNav feature is used to streamline data collection. Results showed improved efficiency and accuracy in navigating between plots, with minimal issues in repeatability between users. The integration of GNSS into Field Book represents a significant step forward in the precision and ease of data collection for plant breeding programs, enhancing both operational efficiency and data quality.