How Gradient Crop Yield Solutions Is Using Data Analytics to Enhance Water Management for California Tomato Growers
In the heart of California’s Central Valley, a groundbreaking agricultural revolution is underway. Gradient Crop Yield Solutions, a subsidiary of the esteemed The Morning Star company, is leading the charge in transforming the way tomatoes are grown, using cutting-edge ground sensor technology and remote sensing analytics to optimize irrigation practices.
The satellite imagery provided by EOS Data Analytics has not only propelled their customer base to over 26,000 acres but also saved farmers a remarkable 10-15% in irrigation costs. As we delve into their story, we will uncover the impressive journey of Gradient and its mission to reshape the future of farming.
Crop monitoring in California
Growing tomatoes in California, despite the region’s favorable climate, presents several agricultural challenges. It is continually impacted by water scarcity, with inconsistent irrigation management leading to crop yield losses and impacted plant health.
To address these issues, Gradient Crop Yield Solutions emerged from the dynamic research and development department of The Morning Star company, focusing on improving water management practices. This transformative journey began on a modest scale, encompassing a mere 1,300 acres in 2018. However, it was the overwhelming interest from growers that necessitated the creation of the Gradient Crop Yield Solutions platform.
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By 2019, the company officially took flight, servicing an initial customer base of 6,200 acres. Fast forward to 2021, and Gradient’s reach extended to an impressive 21,000 acres. Today, they proudly serve growers across California’s expanse, spanning from the south to the north, accounting for a total of 26,000 acres.
Ground and space solutions for crop yield optimization
One of the critical issues addressed by Gradient is over-irrigation, often prompted by hot weather conditions. Instead of merely relying on evapotranspiration and weather data, Gradient’s system uses ground sensors to measure and maintain optimal volumetric water content in the soil, reducing the need for unnecessary watering. This approach benefits both the environment and the grower’s bottom line. However, their innovation doesn’t stop at the ground level. After a series of trial-and-error experiments, they realized that the need for monitoring large acreages with an increased level of precision is quite evident.
Eventually, Gradient decided to harness the power of satellite imagery offered by EOSDA Crop Monitoring to obtain a holistic view of the field uniformity. This data allows their farmers to optimize irrigation practices. Jesus Salcedo, Software Engineer at Gradient, explains: “Satellite imagery allows us to monitor different areas without being present in the field. It saves us from the need to consistently visit fields for checks that may not be necessary.”
The result is a 10-15% reduction in irrigation costs, compared to conventional grower-standard methods. It’s a transformation that redefines the farming landscape, demonstrating the positive impact of precision agritech.
Yuliia Maryanova, Account Manager at EOS Data Analytics and a key collaborator with Gradient, highlights the convenience that growers now have at their fingertips: “EOSDA Crop Monitoring provides growers with a daily stream of in-depth satellite data analytics, complemented by Gradient’s ground data. This unique synergy ensures that growers can make informed decisions about their crops.”
Furthermore, Gradient is actively working on an enhanced nutrition program to combat deficiencies, particularly in tomatoes. They will offer it as a personalized service.
Right now, they practice individual consultations with growers beyond giving access to an online platform. Field technicians are being dispatched to monitor and assess the conditions within growers’ fields. This hands-on approach ensures that any signs of plant stress are swiftly identified and communicated. Meanwhile, the technological advantage of using the combination of ground and satellite data analytics streamlines their operations and provides growers with quick responses to any potential issues.
Paving the way to a sustainable future for California’s tomato growers
In an era where sustainable and efficient farming practices are paramount, the collaboration of Gradient and EOS Data Analytics highlights an important trend of advanced technology becoming available to every grower. The journey from a modest water management project to a sprawling operation across California is an inspiring tale of success. By combining the power of ground sensor technology, satellite imagery, and hands-on support, Gradient is revolutionizing how tomatoes are grown while preserving precious resources and saving growers valuable time and money.
As Yuliia Maryanova aptly summarizes, “Analyzing field conditions remotely through satellite imagery provides growers with important insights. But Gradient goes even further by offering a more individual approach. This personalized touch is what sets them apart in the world of precision agriculture, ensuring healthier crops, a sustainable future, and delighted growers.”
Gradient is on a relentless mission to redefine tomato farming in California with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. Their commitment to innovation and collaboration is facilitated by utilizing remote sensing analytics by EOSDA Crop Monitoring.
By visualizing in-ground sensor locations and data in the near future, Gradient aims to further empower growers to make informed decisions, benefiting both crops and the environment. Their collaboration with EOS Data Analytics has garnered positive feedback. Meanwhile, thorough training ensures growers can utilize the platform effectively.
As operations expand, Gradient envisions covering hundreds of thousands of acres. This reflects the team’s dedication to growers and the vision for a sustainable and prosperous future for California’s tomato farming industry.
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