The International Forum for Agricultural Robotics (FIRA) recently showcased a wide range of robots in Salinas, California. These robots are designed to address the environmental and labor challenges faced by farmers. With tasks ranging from planting to weeding and harvesting, these autonomous solutions offer potential benefits to the agricultural industry.
Ben Palone, who works for FIRA, emphasized the importance of these robots in overcoming the declining interest in manual labor and enhancing the socioeconomic status of agricultural workers. These machines can be attached to tractors, allowing workers to transition from hands-on fieldwork to operating the machinery.
One of the highlights of the event was the laser weeder, a robot that uses laser beams to burn weeds from the ground. This cutting-edge technology is considered the future of farming due to its efficiency and effectiveness.
However, the future of farming is not solely focused on technology. It also involves the engagement of the youth in the community. Walt Duflock from the Western Growers Association stressed the need for young individuals to develop skills in building, servicing, and maintaining these robots, both in manufacturing plants and in the fields.
To encourage the participation of local students, the Western Growers Association plans to invest in programs that help facilitate learning and training in agricultural robotics. By introducing 300 students from the Monterey County area and Salinas Valley to this technology, they aim to nurture a future workforce proficient in robotic solutions.
The aspiration is for Salinas to become a leading hub for these robotic advancements. By attracting robotic companies and promoting local manufacturing, servicing, and maintenance, the aim is to bolster the local economy and position Salinas as a vital market for agricultural robotics.
Source: Original article based on “Robotics evolving the agricultural industry” (https://www.ksbw.com/article/robotics-evolving-the-agricultural-industry/41315178)