Abstract:
The main objective of this study was to carry out farm size
auditing (verification) and provide a baseline data for a strategic
information management system for mapping cotton in Kenya. It
aimed to establish an accurate, updated and detailed database for
all the cotton farmers working with Rift valley Products Limited
(RVP). This study demonstrates the use of Global Position System
(GPS) data collection methods and Geographic information
system (GIS) to provide accurate, key and important information
for decision making and planning. GIS based spatial analysis was
conducted and the best locations for harvest collection centres
were determined, based on the shortest and least cost path of
delivery by the farmer. The maps produced have proven to be
critical tools for the field officers for route planning when
conducting field visits. This has led to a considerable cut in the
cost of production. A cost comparison between GPS field data
collection and use of a high resolution satellite image is given,
implying that field data collection is still the most cost effective
method of collecting accurate information, especially if the land
parcels under consideration are small and segregated.
