By Jamie Martin
Herbicide-resistant weeds pose a major challenge for farmers, but new 3D technology offers hope. Supported by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG), researchers from North Carolina State University, Texas A&M, and Iowa State University are developing tools to help farmers manage weeds effectively.
The project, led by Dr. Ramon Leon, started in 2021 and focuses on mapping cover crops and weeds with precision. Using a handheld GoPro camera, researchers captured aerial videos of cereal rye fields across North Carolina, Texas, and Iowa. These videos were analyzed using Structure-from-Motion technology to recreate the cover crop canopy in a 3D format.
Unlike traditional 2D images, the 3D renderings accurately measure the density and biomass of cover crops, which are vital for weed suppression.
The technology also generates heat maps, showing areas of high and low biomass. Areas with lower biomass indicate weak weed suppression, helping farmers predict where weeds may escape late in the season.
Dr. Leon emphasized the importance of NRCS funding in advancing this innovative solution. “The development of equipment and systems that farmers can use takes several years,” he said. “Having government agencies such as NRCS that invest in the future is what will help us to have more sustainable food production systems.”
Researchers are now working on improving the technology by testing it with other cover crop species. The goal is to enhance accuracy in predicting weed growth and optimize methods for estimating biomass.
This innovative technology not only helps manage herbicide resistance but also promotes soil health and water quality, benefiting farmers and the environment alike.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoomtravels
Categories: National