Canadian farmers need innovative solutions to stay competitive, boost productivity, and adapt to changes in climate, according to a recent statement from the government.
The Ministry of Agriculture is therefore investing in a Canadian company to develop “climate-smart” solutions powered by artificial intelligence technologies with an eye toward a more sustainable sector.
“The Government of Canada is committed to investing in innovative technologies that position Canadian farmers for success,” commented Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
“Artificial intelligence and remote sensing will help the agriculture sector adapt to climate change and seize new opportunities for growth,” the minister said.
Up to $1.65M will go to Toronto-based A.U.G. Signals through the government’s AgriScience Program – Projects Component under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
Moving forward, A.U.G. will lead a three-year project to develop innovative AI-driven solutions for crop health monitoring and yield forecasting.
Working collaboratively with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada scientists on key research activities, the Ontario firm aims to integrate satellite, drone, and field data, creating tools that help producers assess crop emergence, above-ground biomass, drought conditions, and yield predictions in real time.
The project “marks an important milestone in advancing innovative agricultural technologies and strengthening collaboration among industry, research, and government partners,” according to Dr. George Lampropoulos, chief executive officer of A.U.G.
It is “expected to deliver significant benefits to Canada’s agricultural sector by improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience, while supporting economic, innovation, and the competitiveness of Canada’s agricultural industry,” he stated.
“In addition, the project will accelerate the development and commercialization of advanced data-driven technologies and reinforce AUG’s leadership in developing smart and sustainable agriculture technologies,” Lampropoulos confirmed.
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a $3.5B, five-year agreement between federal and provincial governments to strengthen the competitiveness and innovation of the agriculture sector.
The AgriScience Program, under the Partnership, aims to accelerate innovation by providing funding and support for pre-commercial science activities and research that benefits the agriculture in Canada.