Challenge
John Single and his sons, Ben and Tony, faced significant challenges managing herbicide-resistant ryegrass on their farm near Coonamble. Traditional OSST proved ineffective due to long spray times, inaccuracies from dust and shadows, and overall application inefficiency. These limitations made it challenging to effectively target and manage resistant weeds, leading to increased herbicide use and labour costs.
Solution
To address these challenges, the Single-family developed the WeedMapper technology. This innovative system uses a drone with advanced sensors that can map 1,500 to 2,000 hectares daily, even in poor weather conditions. The drone's sensors detect weeds as small as 3 cm with high accuracy, allowing for precise weed mapping and strategic herbicide application.
The system's on-site processing enables the Singles to decide on herbicide types, application rates, and spray strategies before mixing chemicals, reducing waste and improving adherence to herbicide guidelines.
Additionally, they implemented a dual-line system on their 36-metre boom sprayers, allowing for simultaneous blanket and spot spraying, effectively targeting both newly sprouted and resistant weeds in a single pass
Outcome
The implementation of WeedMapper technology has transformed the Singles' approach to weed management. Over five years, they have significantly reduced weed populations, leading to substantial savings on chemicals and labour. The system has resulted in an average weed coverage of just 11%, with some fields requiring no spot spraying.
Financially, the WeedMapper technology has proven highly cost-effective, with annual costs for three spray events totalling $65,563, compared to $269,476 with OSST, saving the family $203,913 annually. The technology has improved weed control and reduced the risk of herbicide resistance and operational expenses, making it an indispensable tool for large-scale weed management.
Reach out!
Ready to see how the Single Ag WeedMapper can bring success to your farm? Reach out today!
