The BELCAM platform, officially launched in 2019, enables stakeholders in the agricultural sector to monitor their field crops free of charge using data from European satellites in the Copernicus programme. It is an independent platform supported by UCLouvain and the CRA-W.
New this year is a more robust crop biomass indicator, thanks to the additional use of radar data (Sentinel-1). This satellite can be used to make estimates if the optical images from Sentinel-2 are affected by cloud cover. New indicators for winter cover crops have also been introduced.
Particular attention has also been paid to the platform's ergonomics. It is currently being improved to make it easier to view and use the indicators. The resulting new interface will be available in July 2026. Users will be able to enjoy integrations with other Walloon platforms, such as WALLeSmart, and a smartphone version will also be available.
To find out more about all these new features, join us now for the 2026 season at belcam.info. You will also be able to analyse the annual heterogeneity of vegetation and cross-reference this information with your knowledge of the field, so you can consider adjusting your management if necessary. In addition, you can monitor the nitrogen status of your crops throughout the season (15 April to 15 May for winter wheat and 15 June to 15 July for potatoes). This information will enable you to assess the effectiveness of your fertilisation and consider making adjustments if necessary.
Want to find out more? Do you have suggestions on how we can best meet your needs? Keen to preview the new interface in May? Don't hesitate to contact us: contact@belcam.info - +32 (0)491 99 22 11.
BELCAM presentations can be organised for groups of farmers, advisors or researchers, on request.
Funding:
Walloon Recovery Plan
