New automated/robotic ag technologies are coming out all the time. Ever wonder how they function in the “real world” and whether they are cost effective? Western Growers recently released a case study report on the economic impact of Carbon Robotics LaserWeeder on overall weeding costs. The study tracked expenses, productivity, and labor savings of the machine operating over one year on several thousand acres at two commercial farms, Braga Fresh and Triangle Farms. It is a well done, detailed study enriched by insightful comments and practical recommendations made by the farm managers responsible for machine operations. It’s an easy read and well worth the time for those interested in the economic and overall feasibility of laser weeding. Check it out hereby clicking the image below. I don’t want to be a spoiler, but I was surprised to learn that despite the initial high cost of the laser weeder ($1.2 million), overall weeding costs at both farms were reduced by about 40% (>$250/acre) in high-density organic crops such as spring mix and spinach.
Stay tuned. Western Growers plans to release five more automation technology case study reports within the next year. Upcoming reports include grower case studies experiences with automated weeding machines from Stout Industrial Technology, Inc. and Ecorobotix; and with autonomous ag platforms from Burro, GUSS Automation, and Bluewhite.

Fig. 1. Western Growers case study report on the economic impact of Carbon
Robotics laser weeding machine on weeding costs at two commercial leafy
green vegetable farms. Click here or on the figure to view. (Photo credit: The
Western Growers Center for Innovation & Technology)