Sentera to Launch Precision Weed Management Service: Is it a See and Spray System Killer?
Editor’s note: In a recent issue of Upstream Ag Professional, agribusiness analyst Shane Thomas highlights the pros and cons of Sentera’s new Aerial WeedScout and how it might serve as a bridge for farmers to test precision applications before potentially transitioning to more comprehensive systems in the future. Here’s a summary of that article:
Sentera has announced the launch of its Early Access Program this summer to preview Aerial WeedScout, an advanced precision weed management solution. This program, in collaboration with major agribusinesses and farmers, aims to gather feedback and build momentum for a 2025 commercial release.
Aerial WeedScout uses drone imaging and AI to detect weeds and create herbicide application maps with a turnaround time of less than 24 hours. It addresses current shortcomings of precision spot spraying technologies from companies like John Deere and Greeneye, which include high upfront costs, reduced productivity due to slower application speeds, and uncertainty in herbicide volumes needed. Sentera’s service can be used with any sprayer equipped with nozzle-level control, such as those from Raven and Case IH, covering about 15% of the North American sprayer market.
Despite its advantages, Sentera’s system introduces several challenges. The process involves additional steps, such as scheduling drone flights, executing them, processing data, and loading prescriptions into sprayers, leading to a potential 24-hour delay between sensing and action. This delay can be problematic due to weather changes or timing issues.
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Sentera’s approach focuses on reducing upfront costs, maintaining high in-field speeds, and providing accurate herbicide volume calculations. However, existing precision spraying systems are evolving, offering more functionalities beyond weed control, such as canopy detection for applying residual insecticides and fungicides. Improvements in hardware and software are expected to enhance the speed and accuracy of these systems.
Ultimately, Sentera’s WeedScout is designed to offer a cost-effective, scalable precision weed management solution, providing an entry point for farmers to explore precision applications. While it addresses some current market gaps, its success depends on balancing the added operational friction with the value it creates for farmers. Sentera’s service might serve as a bridge for farmers to test precision applications before potentially transitioning to more comprehensive systems in the future.
For more in-depth coverage, visit Upstream Ag.
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