Coconut Suitability Mapping

Expanding Nam Hom coconut cultivation in Thailand through geospatial insights

Machine Learning Models for Coconut Crop Viability

In collaboration with SERVIR-SEA, Spatial Informatics Group co-developed a program that uses geospatial data to determine the viability of Nam Hom coconut cultivation in different areas. The software, used by a major coconut water brand, examines a variety of conditions that affect the coconuts’ growth, generating a map that labels regions in terms of how successful crops will be when planted there.

Finding the Best Spots for Coconuts

The Nam Hom coconut is an important crop exclusive to its country of origin, Thailand. A major coconut water brand was interested in expanding their agricultural operations, but the conditions in which the Nam Hom coconut crop thrives has not been well researched in the past.

Mapping to Reduce Risk

The coconut water brand partnered with the USAID Green Invest Asia program to identify conditions that contribute to a successful coconut crop in Thailand and where those conditions reliably occur. First, we excluded places of high ecological value, like conservation areas and primary forest. Then, we created an interactive map that identifies locations where the company can grow their coconuts without the risk of financial loss from failed crops.

Relevant Variables, Easy to See

Using variables like temperature, precipitation, and soil conditions, SIG and SERVIR-SEA used Google Earth Engine to develop a user-friendly map that outlines distinct areas where coconut cultivation is most viable. These are represented by layers with the following labels: not suitable, marginal, favorable, and highly favorable.

Using the mapping tool, the client was able to expand Nam Hom coconut cultivation while mitigating financial risk, with the added benefit of lessening their impact on the local ecosystem.

Environmental Mapping