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Direct benefits to producers and industry.
The latest technology is the key to survival for today’s farmers. The development and refining of equipment and technology is fundamental to maintaining a productive, sustainable and competitive agricultural industry.
The increasing cost of larger, more powerful machinery and equipment represents a huge percentage of farm operating and capital costs. Together, machinery and technology are figured as the number two capital investment for Alberta farmers, second only to land purchase.
"Machinery and technology are one of the few areas of a farm business that producers can control," says Papworth. "Our goal is to provide information that can help farmers make better management decisions on purchases or use of technology."
Four core areas form the basis of AgTech’s research portfolio:
Sprayer technology. Testing spraying equipment has been a specialty of the Centre since it was established in 1975. Through ongoing tests, engineers evaluate several aspects and issues of field spraying, including nozzle choice, drift, coverage and droplet size. A particular emphasis is testing at field scale levels.
"Spraying has evolved over the last 20 years and we’re constantly trying to improve the technology," says Papworth. "One of the most critical aspects of environmental impact is drift control. It’s important that chemicals are applied effectively, without losses. This has been a large part of our past work, and because chemical application is an important factor in sustainable agriculture, it will continue to be a large part of the Centre’s activities."
Direct seeding and fertilizer application. Ongoing research and field testing on direct seeding and fertilizer application help fine-tune crop production efficiency. "AgTech studies have shown that, in terms of fuel and labour costs, direct seeding can save farmers money," says Papworth. "Using the right equipment, under proper conditions can help reduce input costs and increase crop yields."
As well, new approaches to fertilizer placement being tested by Centre engineers and technicians also help producers get the biggest bang for their buck. "We’re finding it may not be the type of fertilizer, but more the optimum placement or row spacing that will produce the greatest return," adds Papworth.
Manure management and handling has become a key part of the AgTech Centre program. Recognizing that manure is a valuable nutrient source, technology is being developed for practical storage or processing and application methods that are environmentally and socially sound. Key project areas include technology for manure odour control and composting techniques, which convert an often-regarded "waste" into a value-added product and important soil amendment.
Traction and tractor efficiency. As one of the largest machinery costs on the farm, it’s important that producers make the most efficient use of their tractor. Key considerations are properly matching tire size and air pressure, as well as tractor size and ballasting to the task at hand.
"These key considerations will help farmers achieve operating cost savings through improved fuel efficiency," says Papworth. "They will also help reduce wear and tear on equipment, and get the job done as efficiently as possible."
Testing equipment and technology development. AgTech’s cornerstone services rely on its own innovation in developing specialized tools and procedures for accurate and unbiased testing of new and existing equipment. This expertise helps develop technologies that benefit manufacturers and ultimately producers. Finding more precise ways to evaluate and measure the performance of equipment and the value of technology has significant economic impact.
"AgTech Centre has had significant impact on technology development in the Prairies over the last 20 years," says Papworth. "The Centre has raised the bar on farming technology."
Specialized product development
One of the most powerful effects of AgTech’s program is the ability to develop specialized equipment and technology in each of its core research areas.
Specialized tools and facilities include a well-equipped fabricating lab, field equipment and electronic measuring equipment. For example, a specialized electronic device can measure soil disturbance as the result of manure incorporation, as well as the effect of high and low disturbance seeding equipment. The Centre also developed one of the first plot-sized air seeders in North America that can handle all forms of fertilizer - dry, liquid and anhydrous.
Many companies come to the Centre with specific technology needs, Papworth explains. Some want an independent assessment of their equipment, whether it be a single component or the whole machine. Equipment may be tested in standard applications, or the manufacturer may need help solving problems with a prototype.
"Companies come to us looking for help in moving a concept through the idea stage to commercialization," says Papworth. "Part of our goal is to ensure that untested technology is effective and will benefit producers. Let’s get the bugs out first so producers know what will work for them."
With recognized expertise in testing and evaluation services, AgTech Centre works directly with machinery and technology manufacturers, as well as individual inventors and innovators. "We have the skilled personnel, tools, equipment and know-how to provide a proper evaluation," says Papworth.
AgTech Centre’s well-earned reputation is recognized by some of the largest manufacturers in the industry. Past projects have involved John Deere, Caterpillar, Ford/New Holland, Case IH, Bourgault, Flexi-coil, Gen, Morris and several others.
"Both manufacturers and farmers know we deliver sound, unbiased information," says Papworth. "We tell it like it is, keeping the end-user in mind. Manufacturers realize if they want to be successful, their products have to really work in the field." |