Innovative Technology Tested to Protect Crops
By JP McDonald
Farms.com
Say goodbye to traditional scarecrows and booming propane cannons; the "Laser Scarecrow" offers a safer, more efficient, and high-tech approach to protect sunflower fields from pesky birds.
This innovative product took flight at Grand Farm near Casselton, North Dakota and was developed by KWS Seeds.
Resembling an unassuming solar-powered device, the Laser Scarecrow boasts a simple setup, with a laser pointer sweeping back and forth, casting a green dot over the sunflower field.
While it may not look intimidating, this advanced technology is anything but ordinary. It serves as an irritant for birds, encouraging them to steer clear of the crops without causing harm.
Birds have long been a challenge for sunflower growers, threatening their yields and profits. Traditional methods to deter them have often proven unsafe or ineffective. The Laser Scarecrow, already successfully utilized at airports, demonstrates its potential as a game-changer for agriculture.
The digital bird deterrent offers hope for higher sunflower yields, as it keeps the birds at bay during the critical blooming stage when the plants are laden with seeds. By preventing bird damage, farmers can expect a more prosperous harvest and increased profits.
With its easy setup and user-friendly app management, the Laser Scarecrow proves to be farmer-friendly, requiring minimal technical expertise.
As sunflowers prepare to bloom at Grand Farm, excitement builds to witness the Laser Scarecrow in action. Will this futuristic approach outperform traditional control plots? Only time will tell, but initial tests and feedback from producers have sparked optimism.
The Laser Scarecrow reflects the power of collaboration between technology and agriculture, making farming safer, more efficient, and sustainable. As KWS Seeds continues to explore innovative solutions, they invite producers to share their challenges and contribute to a more profitable and productive farming future.
With the Laser Scarecrow in action, the future of bird protection in farming seems promising. As the sunflowers sway peacefully in the North Dakota sun, a gentle green laser dot keeps watch, ensuring their safety.