Using satellite imagery and geo-referencing technology for building a master sampling frame

A master sampling frame is a sampling frame that provides the basis for all data collections based on sample surveys and censuses in a certain sector. Current technologies, in particular the availability of remote sensing, the ability of geographic information systems to overlay and integrate efficiently different layers of geographic information, have completely transformed the way of building master sampling frames for the agricultural sector and considerably reduced the cost and the time needed. The evolution of global positioning systems has substantially changed the field work, influencing also the definition of master sampling frames. In this paper, we analyze how the use of satellite imagery and geo-referencing technology has influenced the building of master sampling frames for agricultural statistics.