One of the most helpful pieces of technology
Farm Operations Manager Ian Mintz said the machines, with his help, use cameras to determine a "kill zone" in between plants as the tractor drives. The machine will scoop out weeds as the tractor is driven slowly down the rows. It’s been a great benefit to the farm's organic operation since herbicides can't be used.
"What makes this machine so special is the ability to weed in the row between the plants ... That's always difficult," Wisdom said. "That's where the advancement of vision-driven technology has made big improvements in agriculture."
Mintz stepped into the driver's seat of a tractor equipped with one of the robotic weeders. The tractor features a computer that displays video from mounted cameras.
When the tractor is in use, the computer shows crops, such as broccoli or cabbage seed, marked with a green X. Anything between those Xs can be automatically plucked by the weeder, Mintz said.
He said the screen helps him ensure the weeder is identifying the right plants.
