Cargill Trials Irrigation Technology for Enhanced Cotton Seedling Growth
Cargill Implements Innovative Technology for Cotton Irrigation Efficiency
Cargill, a leader in commodity trading, is collaborating with Goanna Ag from Australia to pilot advanced irrigation efficiency technology for cotton farming in the southern United States.
This pilot program will be extended to a limited number of cotton farmers located in Missouri, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Participants are set to receive training and installation of Goanna Ag’s GoField technology platform, which harnesses sensors, satellite imagery, weather predictions, and various crop analytics to facilitate precise irrigation practices.
The Mississippi Delta, recognized as the third-largest irrigated agricultural area in the U.S., has witnessed a sharp decline in groundwater resources, posing a significant threat to the availability of water for local farms.
“Prominent retail brands are establishing water-related objectives and turning to supply chain partners like Cargill for solutions that are backed by data-driven sustainability,” remarked Matt Dunbar, Managing Director of Cargill’s cotton division. “This pilot initiative emphasizes Cargill’s dedication to enabling our clients to achieve their sustainability aspirations and promoting water conservation in agriculture.”
Paper Manufacturer Invests in AgTech Startup for Enhanced Precision in Forest Management
A leading global purveyor of pulp products has made a strategic investment in a Brazilian agtech firm, aiming to propel advancements in precision silviculture.
Suzano’s investment arm has contributed an undisclosed amount to BemAgro, part of the software company’s latest $2.6 million funding initiative. BemAgro utilizes artificial intelligence to transform aerial imagery captured by drones or satellites into actionable insights, assisting farmers in optimizing their operations.
Suzano plans to apply BemAgro’s technology to enhance its eucalyptus production practices. Both firms are joining forces to develop a novel algorithm tailored specifically for eucalyptus cultivation, which will significantly bolster Suzano’s silviculture capabilities.
“With the enhanced monitoring of our seedlings, this technology will enable us to evaluate growth quality at a critical juncture, ultimately determining the long-term vitality of the trees,” stated Álvaro Gómez Rodríguez, Senior Manager at Suzano Ventures.
TerraClear Appoints New CEO Following $15 Million Funding Success
A startup focused on assisting farmers in rock removal from their fields has announced the appointment of a new CEO following a successful $15 million funding round.
Devin Lammers has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of TerraClear, succeeding outgoing CEO Brent Frei who will continue with the company as Board Chair. Lammers comes to TerraClear with experience from Farmer Business Network, where he was a founding member and served as president of FBN Financial along with a grain sustainability platform called Gradable.
TerraClear offers a mapping solution that helps farmers identify rocks in their fields before they can damage equipment or cause delays during planting. Additionally, the company provides a rock picker capable of clearing 400 rocks per hour.
“The technological prowess, vertically integrated service model, and relatively open market niche present significant opportunities for growth,” Lammers expressed in a statement. “I am excited to collaborate with the team to engage with farmers, boost recurring revenue, and explore strategic partnerships to enhance TerraClear’s position as a leader in the AgTech sector.”
Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.