3D Tech advances weed management in farming

Innovative mapping boosts crop health, reduces weeds

In a significant advancement for sustainable agriculture, NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant partners are harnessing 3D technology to tackle herbicide-resistant weeds. Led by Dr. Ramon Leon from North Carolina State University, the team includes experts from Texas A&M and Iowa State University.

The project employs 3D imagery to map cover crops and weeds, enabling precise analysis of crop growth and weed distribution. This method helps farmers make informed decisions about herbicide application, aiming to minimize usage and enhance crop health.

By accurately assessing cover crop biomass, the technology predicts potential weed suppression areas, guiding targeted interventions.

"Having government agencies such as NRCS that invest in the future is what will help us to have more sustainable food production systems," stated Dr. Leon, emphasizing the importance of innovative approaches in agriculture.

The technology was piloted in North Carolina, Iowa, and Texas, using a GoPro camera mounted on drones. The camera captures aerial footage, processed through Structure-from-Motion techniques to produce a detailed 3D map of the terrain. This approach not only provides a realistic view of the biomass but also identifies areas vulnerable to weed infestations.

As part of ongoing research, NCSU graduate student Avi Goldsmith is testing the accuracy of this technology in predicting late-season weed growth. The focus is on cereal rye, a cover crop known for its robust biomass and weed suppression capabilities.

This project represents a proactive approach to agriculture management, promising to reduce herbicide use, improve soil health, and ensure water quality downstream.

As this technology develops, it could become a standard tool for farmers striving to maintain sustainable and productive operations amidst increasing challenges from resistant weeds.