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From mapping your paddocks to unlocking the full power of John Deere’s autonomous technologies, boundary creation is the foundation of a successful precision agriculture strategy. Learn how to get started with the right tools, setup, and expert support.
Creating accurate boundaries is the most critical first step when preparing to implement precision agriculture technologies into your operation. As gross profit margins continue to tighten, John Deere’s Precision Ag solutions are built to keep you ahead of the curve.
To unlock the full potential of Deere’s expanding technology suite—such as turn automation, section control, boundary fill guidance tracks, and a clean, accurate Operations Centre for seamless data transfer—it all begins with one key element: mapping your paddock boundaries.
By investing a little time now to map your boundaries correctly, you’re laying the groundwork for long-term success in the world of autonomy.
Getting Started is as Easy as 1, 2, 3, 4:
1. The Hardware You’ll Need:
- A 7000 or 7500 receiver with SF-RTK or Radio RTK
- A John Deere display (ideally a Gen 5)
- A mapping box (available for hire or purchase at any Hutcheon and Pearce branch)
- An M Modem or USB
This hardware can be easily mounted on any utility vehicle or buggy. Alternatively, you can use one of your existing John Deere machines to drive and record boundaries.
2. Setup & Calibration
Grab a tape measure—precision matters here. Mount the receiver in line with your seating position to avoid any offset. This ensures the boundary line is drawn exactly where you drive.
3. Time to Map
Drive steadily around the perimeter of the area where your seeder operates each year—this is referred to as mapping the “green area.” Take your time, especially around corners, to create clean, smooth lines. Avoid sharp or jagged turns for the best results. This allows each machine to steer smoothly around the corner without any operator intervention
4. Finalise Your Work
Review every boundary to ensure it has a clear, consistent name—this keeps your data streamlined. While you’re at it, take the time to tidy up your ‘Client’, ‘Farm’, and ‘Field’ data in the Operations Center.
HOT TIPS for Boundary Mapping Success
- Take your time—a small effort now pays big in the long run.
- Use the Pause/Resume feature to keep lines straight along fence lines.
- To maintain a consistent offset from fences, consider mounting a physical guide on the side of your vehicle.
- If your paddock contains multiple internal areas (polygons), map each one separately as internal boundaries on the screen. Later, update them as exterior boundaries in Operations Center.
- Use a consistent naming convention, such as: SFRTK_DRIVEN_BOUNDARY_2025_George (correction type + boundary + year + operator’s name)
For further information or assistance, please contact the Hutcheon and Pearce Precision Ag Team. Our specialists are available for on-farm visits and will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating and setting up driven boundaries tailored to your operation.
Helpful Links:
How to Create a Driven Boundary Part 1 | John Deere Precision Ag – YouTube
How to Create a Driven Boundary Part 2 | John Deere Precision Ag – YouTube
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