21 Jun 2017
Fully automated cropping technology will feature at NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Trangie Agricultural Research Centre’s free precision agriculture field day on Wednesday June 28.
NSW DPI lecturer in precision agriculture at Tocal College, Matt Notley, said a driverless tractor, with a fully automated weed management and cropping fitout, was a drawcard for the event.
“New equipment and data management systems offer farmers the opportunity to lift production and reduce input costs by using available data in ways we had previously not envisioned,” Mr Notley said.
“The growth and development of digital agriculture is delivering a huge leap forward for local farmers.
“Precision agriculture goes beyond guiding a tractor around the paddock with a GPS – these sophisticated new systems allow farmers to use data, including soil tests, yield and weed maps, to effectively manage their farming operations.
“We’re inviting farmers and consultants to see what’s on offer and take advantage of ride and drive sessions to get a firsthand experience of potential benefits from latest generation technology.
“Farmers can learn more about Tocal’s precision agronomy program and see paddock level implementation of precision agriculture on the farm."
Leading industry specialists will deliver practical demonstrations of:
The focus is on showing local producers and agribusiness advisers how they can apply this new technology on the farm to improve productivity.
The program runs from 0900 until 1530, with complimentary breakfast and lunch provided by Rotary. Information about precision agriculture training courses is available from Tocal College, www.tocal.nsw.edu.au
To register for the field day contact Matt Notley, 0434 273 888 or precisionag@tocal.com
Additional photographs available from bernadette.york@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Media contact: Bernadette York (02) 6938 1664