Farming technology

[projekktor id=’25632′]

This summer was the driest on record for farmers in the Niagara area. Technology however is shaping the way farmers now tend to their crops. Researchers at Niagara College are working on reducing the effects of harsh weather conditions through automation and wireless sensory technology.

The college plans to build 6 weather measurement stations in fields, orchards and vineyards across southern Ontario. One of the pieces of technology researchers showcased today was sensory staff. The battery operated staff gives farmers up to the minute information on humidity, temperature and lighting. The data collected would then be analyzed to determine the condition of the crops. The remote controlled rover with built in sensors would sample the heat and humidity of the crop, which is important for crops that are sensitive to mould.

Some of the technologies are still in the developing stages, but devices like drones have been used in farming for a number of years now. The college received over $130 000 from Ottawa for the project which it hopes will give farmers the tools they needs grow over the next 30 years.