AgriSnap – Geotagged Photograph Application
AgriSnap is a free-to-download smartphone application that enables farmers and their advisors/planners to capture accurate geotagged photographs using their smartphones and to submit them “securely and conveniently” to the DAFM.
The “easy to access and use” app – which is available on both the Play Store and App Store – has been developed by the DAFM, the Walton Institute in Waterford and Teagasc under a European-wide NIVA project based on farmer feedback.
An AgriSnap photo is an image which captures the geographic coordinates and camera details within the background data of the photo.
The location information – the latitude/longitude coordinates – is stored in the properties of the photo and allows the DAFM to locate the image to an agricultural parcel.
According to the DAFM, AgriSnap photos provide farmers with “a secure means to verify the accuracy and veracity of claims” and may be used to assure compliance.
When a farmer or advisor takes a photo, the app collects data such as contrast, the user who has captured the photo, device type, brightness, light source, GPS coordinates and file name.
In 2023, AgriSnap will be utilised as the geotag photo app to support the AMS – Area Monitoring System – which is used to monitor BISS, ANC, Protein Aid and SIM (Straw Incorporation Measure).
However, the DAFM has outlined that AMS results may impact other area-based schemes in 2023 before it is “extended further” in 2024.
If AMS turns a parcel red, you will be provided with an opportunity to provide an AgriSnap photo to show what you claim the parcel to be.
Logging into the app
Farmers and their advisors will receive AgriSnap requests in connection to their application from the DAFM through the app.
Therefore, the DAFM has urged farmers to download the app and become familiar with it. To log in, input the username and password that you utilise to gain access to AgFood.ie.
The Department may issue a notification request to you to submit geotagged photographs using AgriSnap, as part of the checks process.
Upon your first request to log into AgriSnap, you will be prompted to provide a mobile number to which a one-time validation login six-digit code will be sent via SMS within 30-60 seconds.
The number will be utilised for all future logins, for two-factor authentication purposes, and this device will receive an SMS each time you log in.
Agents and advisors must log into AgriSnap using their advisor login details when conducting any work on behalf of a client.
The DAFM has outlined that if you experience issues with the app, do not uninstall AgriSnap, as imagery cannot be retrieved. Contact – [email protected] – in relation to any queries you may have.
When using the app:
- Log in before leaving home or the office – a location with a strong mobile connection;
- The app will remain active for over 24 hours (closer to 48 hours) once you have logged in;
- Once logged in, the app will work offline if your connection is lost;
- If you are in an area with poor coverage, you may experience difficulties logging in;
- Take photos in open spaces;
- Note that heavy covers, such as trees, walls, and roofs, will impact GPS accuracy;
- Ensure your phone is adequately charged;
- The app uses minimum storage and minimum battery – DAFM;
- You can access the app at all times.
