International honours have been bestowed on Charles Sturt University (CSU) Professor of Irrigation Graeme Batten for his leading research into the rapid, reliable and low cost analysis technique which has revolutionised crop management.

Professor Batten from the CSU School of Agriculture has been named as the winner of the 2004 Tomas Hirschfield Award by the International Council for Near Infrared Spectroscopy (ICNIRS).

The prestigious award is presented each year to a scientist of international standing in recognition of the contribution they make to the advancement of the analysis technique known as Near Infra-Red (NIR) spectroscopy. 

It is a process whereby the composition of a diverse range of materials from soils to rice and wheat crops, fruit and vegetables and even tablets are analysed using infra-red light. 

Almost two decades ago, Professor Batten saw the potential of NIR spectroscopy to determine nitrogen levels in rice crops so growers could better manage the use of fertiliser, increase yields at the same time as minimising any adverse impact on the environment through over fertilisation.

As the technique led to higher rice yields, growers warmly embraced the analysis using NIR spectroscopy and it is now used by over 40 percent of Australian rice growers.

“The early, ground breaking research into NIR spectroscopy has seen the analysis technique spread to the wheat and citrus industries, as well as being used by vegetable and grape growers,” said Professor Batten.

“As Professor of Irrigation at CSU, my main challenge is water efficient crop production through improved crop nutrition and I will continue to focus my research around the application of NIR spectroscopy to rice, fruit, grapes and soil,” he said.

Professor Batten is also taking NIR spectroscopy to great heights by using NIR instruments carried by light aircraft or satellites.

Professor Batten’s research into NIR spectroscopy has been published locally and internationally.  He has hosted overseas scientists in his laboratory and addressed many international conferences on the progress of the analysis technique. 

Professor Batten will be presented the 2004 Tomas Hirschfield Award when he delivers the keynote address at the Council’s annual conference in Chicago next March.