E-Delivery

engineers and entrepreneurs to stretch the boundaries of what we recently considered not possible. With the advancement of robo cs, drone technology, imaging and applica ons of these only limited by imagina ons, we are entering into a new revolu onary period in how growing food, fuel and fibre will be done in the future. The AgBot challenge south of the border is a great example of how new technologies are being spawned and refined. The previous compe ons in 2016 and 2017 were focused on autonomous seeders and, in 2018, compe tors will be looking at weed iden fica on and eradica on through robo cs. The compe on draws engineering entrepreneurs and enthusiasts from across North America, including, the Canadian Prairies. "We hired two of the brightest local Saskatchewan boys who were there compe ng, and yet were not farmers," Meyer said. "The emergence of robo cs, drones, data, imaging and combina on of these technologies brings a diverse background of interests, specializa ons and opportunity for agriculture. DOT itself integrates technology from the auto industry in iden fying and recognizing obstacles and can use some of the safety innova ons from that sector." The Canadian Prairies are known for farm innova on, engineering and commercializa on of technologies related to agriculture. The efficiencies that these technologies can bring are not only related to labour being autonomous, but also meliness of opera on given limited windows, not to men on emission savings. Meyer added: "We believe that there are emissions savings greater than 20% with the DOT pla orm." Both the provincial and federal governments have made it clear that a low carbon economy and emission reduc ons are the way forward. The area of ag technology, automa on, drone technology and big data are allowing the once sci-fi imagina ons of Hollywood writers to soon be common place on the Prairies. "What we need is a catalyst here, in Western Canada, for all our great minds to come together, and showcase to our urban friends and fellow farmers where agriculture can and will meet the challenge to con nue to do more with less," said Nevin Rosaasen, Policy and Program Specialist with Alberta Pulse Growers. "We have an appe te to invest in Canadian people and skills, technology, emission reduc ons and growing our agriculture exports. We need an incubator and mee ng place to unleash our crea vity to keep pushing the limits of how we can feed our growing popula on in more efficient and effec ve ways." Meyer sparked discussions among farmers at the Next Level Farming regional mee ngs of Alberta Pulse Growers, Alberta Barley and Alberta Wheat Commission in November. DOT in a field. Call Your CANSEED Dealer: Galloway Seeds Ltd. Fort Saskatchewan, AB 780-998-3036 Hadland Seed Farm Ltd. Baldonnel, BC 250-793-9746 Meinczinger Seed Farm Ltd. Busby, AB 780-349-2456 Rick's Pedigreed Seed Barrhead, AB 780-674-6713 Dealer inquiries can be made by calling 780-674-6713 INTRODUCING AAC BARRHEAD PEAS An early maturing, medium size, human consumption yellow pea. "DOT itself integrates technology from the auto industry in identifying and recognizing obstacles and can use some of the safety innovations from that sector." - Trent Meyer, DOT Technology Corporation 1 4

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