This article is part of a series focused on new ag technologies that are helping farmers to be more efficient, sustainable, and profitable.
Agricultural robots, designed to perform repetitive specialized tasks with precision and speed, are revolutionizing farming by relieving farmers of time consuming and high manpower processes such as applying pest controls, planting, fertilizing, watering, and weeding.
The number of different agricultural robots on the market has increased over recent years and now ranges from spraying drones, to driverless tractors, and automated pickers, many of which utilize AI when performing their dedicated task. Harvesting robots, as example, automatically image and detect what produce is ripe and ready to be harvested, sometimes even more accurately than a human.
Agricultural robots also have the ability to enhance precision farming practices, with data collection and analysis capabilities. Equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and GPS technology, these robots gather vast amounts of real-time data related to crop health, soil moisture levels, weather conditions, and more. Farmers can then make informed decisions regarding planting schedules, irrigation regimes, pest management strategies, and crop rotation plans. The insights ultimately empower farmers to optimize their practices, maximize yields, and adapt to changing environmental conditions effectively.
No matter how helpful on the farm, revolutionary technologies come at a high cost, making adding them less accessible for smaller scale farmers (or not accessible to those without access to technology) and giving large corporations the upper hand. Leasing options are likely to make the technologies more accessible over time.
With labor shortages becoming a growing and significant concern on farms in many parts of the globe, robotic systems offer a solution. By automating tasks, farmers can be confident in their ability to easily manage time sensitive jobs like picking or weeding at exactly the right time.
Robotic systems can also work non-stop, without the need for breaks or rest. This ensures tasks are completed in a timely, precise manner. Enhanced productivity translates to higher yields and reduced labor costs for farmers.
M.R.
OTHER ARTICLES IN OUR REGENERATIVE AG SERIES:
5 Fundamental Regenerative Practices
We have an obligation to use AI for good whenever and wherever we can. We can tackle these challenges to the global food supply, and we must.
