A wide range of technologies is available on the market to optimize the use of plant protection products. However, their integration by technicians and farmers remains limited. The project led by Agrotecnio, “Bridging the Digital Gap: Weed Detection and Control in Maize and Cereal Crops Using Precision Agriculture Technology,” aims to train advisors and farmers in the implementation of advanced technological packages and integrate them with the IPMWise Decision Support System (DSS), developed by Agrotecnio and the University of Lleida (UdL).
The project promotes the use of sensors to analyze soil variability and generate treatment maps with variable dosing. In addition, image recognition technology will be used to detect the presence and location of weeds, which will be controlled based on DSS IPMWise recommendations according to the specific species and its developmental stage. These measures are expected to reduce pesticide use by more than 30% compared to conventional practices.
The program, which is part of an initiative for more sustainable and efficient agricultural development, incorporates technologies such as the Veris 3100 sensor and the Smart Firmer, which provide insights into soil composition and optimize herbicide application. Additionally, drones equipped with multispectral cameras will be used to precisely identify weed-infested areas and design customized treatment plans.
Thanks to this technological integration, decision-making will shift from a regional to a parcel- and intra-parcel level, ensuring both effective weed control and compliance with current regulations.
Demonstration activities will take place in various agricultural plots across Catalonia, including Almacelles, Miralcamp, Girona, Vallès, and Verdú. The trials will last between 3 to 5 months, depending on the crop, and will compare the results of conventional techniques with the implementation of the technological package.
This project represents a significant step forward in agricultural sustainability, bringing environmental, economic, and social benefits. Environmentally, it will contribute to a more rational use of herbicides. Economically, it will help reduce costs for farmers. Socially, it will aid in bridging the digital gap in the agricultural sector by promoting better adoption of available technologies.
This initiative is funded under Intervention 7161 – Support for the Implementation of Operational Group Projects of the European Innovation Partnership (EIP-AGRI) on Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability, within the framework of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027.
