The World Ag Expo, a significant event in the agricultural industry, is set to showcase the top innovations in agricultural technology with its 2025 Top-New Product Contest winners. Participants in this annual contest, which highlights a variety of new products aimed at improving farming efficiencies and practices, will be displayed at the expo scheduled for February 11-13, 2025. The contest evaluates submissions from upcoming exhibitors, and a panel of judges, comprising farmers, ranchers, and industry professionals, has determined the winners.
Among those recognised is the Pelican Spray, developed by Pyka, a company based in Alameda, California. This autonomous electric crop sprayer is designed to optimise chemical application through advanced precision spray and drift reduction technologies, ultimately aiming to reduce operational costs for growers. The Pelican Spray boasts full automation and can be operated via a laptop, offering flexibility for use during both day and night hours. The next-generation model, launched for 2025, promises increased payload and productivity, in addition to confirmed reliability demonstrated in the field.
In the field of weed control, the industry has seen the introduction of the ARA, The Ultra-High Precision Sprayer from Ecorobotix, located in Pasco, Washington. This system employs Plant-by-Plant AI Software that allows for precise treatment application, targeting areas as small as 2.4×2.4 inches. It is positioned to decrease chemical product use by up to 95%, enhancing both efficacy and sustainability in agricultural practices.
Additionally, the Vacbohl is set to enhance harvesting efficiency with its AutoFill technology, which can reportedly cut labour costs by 75% while automating tasks like de-stacking and filling harvest containers. Scheduled for a limited release in 2025 and a full rollout in 2026, it integrates directly with Oxbo's 7440 and 7450 Berry harvesters.
Another notable mention is the Garford Electric Weeder, a collaboration between Garford Farm Machinery and RootWave. This machine is innovating in weed control through the use of electrical technology, which effectively eradicates weeds without the detrimental residual effects of chemical herbicides, marking a step towards more sustainable agricultural practices.
Other winners highlight varying technological advancements including the FlexiRiser Pump Puller from Water Well Rentals/Hose Solutions, the Pollination Insight Platform (PIP) from BeeHero, which provides real-time data on pollination via AI and in-field sensors, and the Synergy Blower by Flory Industries designed for enhanced efficiency in almond and walnut harvesting.
The Seppi Miniforst Pick Up CL 175 adds to this year's accolades by promising improved soil health and effective vineyard management through its advanced shredding capabilities. Meanwhile, the Vulcan T380 by FarmWise Labs represents a significant advance in AI-driven weeding for the tomato processing industry, focusing on precision and efficacy in weed management.
Industry forecasts indicate that the integration of these advanced technologies will continue to reshape agricultural practices, promoting better resource management and sustainability across various sectors. The upcoming expo is poised to provide a platform for these innovative solutions, enhancing the dialogue around the future of agriculture and its increasingly automated landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services