The increase of chemical herbicide bans and herbicide-resistant weeds is demanding new and sustainable ways to tackle the farm intruders.
A Rutgers University scientist, Thierry Besançon, is taking up the challenge by harnessing artificial intelligence and light energy to provide an alternative to traditional herbicides.
The Rutgers Laser Weeding machine recently underwent field trials in New Jersey. This was a key site as many specialty vegetable farmers often bear the brunt of weeds due to the lack of or limited number of approved herbicides.
The results? The laser weeding technology performed just as well as well-known herbicides, and, in some cases, allowed the crops to experience better growth.
How the Rutgers Laser Weeder Works
As Besançon puts it, it’s pure physics. “There’s no herbicide involved. It’s just light energy targeting the weeds,” he adds.
The machine is fitted with artificial intelligence technology that assists in differentiating between desirable crops and weeds. Once a weed is correctly identified, a laser is deployed to kill the weed.
“We had weeds growing just half a centimeter from the crop seedlings, and there was no laser damage to the crops. It’s extremely precise,” the weed science specialist explains.
While the machine is not fully autonomous and requires a trained professional to operate, it is a step in the right direction and has not gone unnoticed.
Stephen O. Duke, a veteran weed scientist from the University of Mississippi, hailed the technology as one of the most important agricultural innovations of this century.
He praises the test trials for providing convincing evidence that the technology of artificial intelligence-guided lasers may soon revolutionize weed control in the developed world.
The New Age of Weed Control
Many farmers have welcomed the laser weeder technology, with some even willing to purchase the machine.
While there are a few hurdles that remain, such as its high starting price ($500,000), its ability to only work on short-season crops, and when the weeds are small, its benefits far outweigh the setbacks.
The Rutgers laser weeder eliminates the use of chemicals, protecting people and the environment, and helps overcome the challenges of the increasing herbicide-resistant weeds.
Thierry is hopeful that as the technology advances, it will become more affordable for more specialty and organic farmers.
Ultimately, the eco-friendly laser weeding technology is at the forefront of transforming weed management, and according to Besançon, the rollout of this Rutgers machine is just the beginning.
Lead Editor for Insight Weeds.