Modified VRG Fertilizer Spreader

Introduction

One of the newest innovations in Precision Agriculture is the real-time VR spreader. Motivation for the development of this type of spreader is increase field performance significantly, while lowering chemical use and costs. This type of VR spreader does not use prescription maps, but relies on digital cameras to provide real-time weed and bare spot detection, which is used to dispense correct fertilizer rate in specific sections of the boom where the plants have been detected.

Objective

The objective of the research was to substantially reduce agrochemical usage, improve land stewardship, protect environment and increase berry yields.

Researchers

Dr. Qamar Zaman, Associate Professor, Engineering Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University

Dr. Young Ki Chang (Post Doctoral Fellow)

Scott Read (Senior Research Technician)

Hassan Chattha (Graduate Student) 

Aitazaz Farooque (Graduate Student)

Partners

This research was funded by Oxford Frozen Foods, Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture, Wild blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia and Agri-Futures (ACAAF) Nova Scotia.