FarmDroid has taken a significant step into the U.S. agricultural market this spring and summer, with our cutting-edge field robots now operating in Oregon, Michigan, and California. We recently spoke with Dane Watson, the driving force behind setting up these field robots and presenting them during field days. Here’s his insight on FarmDroid’s promising first season in America:
Breaking Ground in the U.S.
In April, three FarmDroid FD20 robots began their introductory U.S. operations, seeding fields across Oregon, Michigan, and California. Despite the challenges of introducing new technology, our collaboration with farmers and research partners at Michigan State University and Oregon State University ensured smooth, successful deployment. Since then, these robots have continuously seeded and weeded crops, quickly capturing local farmers’ attention.
Field Demonstrations and Farmer Feedback
In August, FarmDroid hosted a live demonstration at the West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center, where local vegetable growers watched the FarmDroid FD20 precisely weed kale it had previously seeded. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the significant reduction in labor costs. One grower expressed strong interest in using the FD20 for broccoli fields next season, impressed by the robot’s efficiency and reliability.
Community Engagement and Safety Demonstration
The next day, we engaged the local community with a demonstration, attracting about 30 curious onlookers. The event was a great success, with attendees asking a wide range of questions, including about the machine’s safety around people. The session therefore highlighted the robot’s safety features, as one brave attendee volunteered to test the safety circuit. The FD20 instantly halted upon contact, and after a quick reset, it resumed weeding autonomously, leaving the crowd impressed and reassured.
Oregon: A Growing Interest
As the summer unfolded, we showcased the FarmDroid FD20 at Oregon State University’s North Willamette Research and Extension Center. A dozen farmers gathered to witness the FD20 skillfully weed beet, turnip, and rutabaga plots. The robot’s remarkable precision and consistency have ignited strong interest among local farmers, many of whom are now eager to bring FarmDroid into their fields next season.
And that wraps up our latest updates from the U.S. – but the journey is just beginning!
Want to see how FarmDroid can transform your farming practices? Reach out today to be part of the future of agriculture and experience firsthand the innovation that’s shaping the next generation of farming.