September 26, 2025 - Noah Ray, Area X.O
Meeting summary
Quick recap
The meeting focused on updates and discussions about agricultural robotics and technology initiatives, including a presentation on weed management in pumpkin fields using robotic platforms and a case study of their implementation. Various projects and collaborations were discussed, including research opportunities, funding options, and the potential for farmers to test different robotic solutions across multiple sites. The group also explored business models for robotics in farming, upcoming events and symposiums, and the need for better technology adoption tracking among farmers.
Next steps
Summary
Area XO-NIO Oz Agri Collaboration
Noah Ray from Area XO presented an update on their collaboration with NIO Oz, focusing on weed management in a pumpkin field. He highlighted Area XO's role as a technology-rich R&D facility in Ottawa, offering services to public and private entities. Noah encouraged attendees to utilize Area XO's facilities in the upcoming 2026 growing season for testing, validation, and demonstrations of agricultural technologies. He also mentioned the possibility of participating in farm open houses, virtual focus groups, and other activities at the site.
NIOZ Robot Weed Management Case Study
Nathan presented a case study on using the NIOZ robotic platform for weed management in pumpkin fields. The robot, which can cover up to 5 acres per day, was deployed in a 4.2 acre pumpkin field with a pre-emergence herbicide application. The robot was used to control weeds in the rows before the pumpkin canopy developed, operating 3 days per week. Despite some challenges with hot weather affecting battery life, the robot was successful in reducing weed pressure and the farmer was satisfied with the results.
Robotic Pass Mapping for Agriculture
Nathan shared a method for creating robotic pass mapping using drone imagery, which can be useful for farmers without GPS beacons on their planters. He also discussed a project where researchers at the University of Ottawa used a robot equipped with cameras to collect data for AI development, particularly for identifying pumpkins. Nathan concluded by announcing plans to keep the Nile Oz robot at the Ottawa Innovation Farm for next year, with intentions to expand its capabilities and test a larger robot, the NIO Oreo, for scaling up to 10 acres per day in pumpkin farming operations.
Robotic Farming Equipment Update
Noah provided an update on his project involving a robotic farming equipment, noting its successful implementation and positive impact on a farmer's operations. Cesar inquired about the financial analysis of the equipment, to which Noah explained that while it's included in their project KPIs, they're still collecting data to make a comprehensive comparison. Noah mentioned that after three years of consistent data collection, they could potentially draw conclusions about yield increases and cost-effectiveness. Dan asked about the limiting factors for the number of acres the equipment can service daily, and Noah attributed it to battery life and the robot's speed.
AgTech Initiatives and Robotics Competition
The meeting covered updates on ongoing projects and initiatives. Noah provided an update on his work, which Dan expressed excitement about. Bridget discussed the Ottawa Innovation Farm project, funded by Innovation Farms Ontario and AgExpert. She also announced the launch of a robotics competition for high school students, partnering with the Ontario College of Technology Educators. The competition will involve students working with community partners on ag tech or AgRobotic challenges, with presentations and trials at the London Farm Show in March. Bridget called for judges for both the initial project submissions and the in-person competition at the show.
Robotics Farming Business Models Discussed
The meeting began with Bridget sharing a link in the chat and encouraging questions. Dan introduced a question about business models for robotics in farming, which Noah addressed by suggesting a phased approach with initial control by the provider, followed by a lease-to-own model. The group discussed the GC Expo in Ottawa, which Dan attended and found well-organized and beneficial for networking.
Robotics and AI Event Planning
The group discussed upcoming robotics and AI events, including the Canadian Robotics Council 2025 Symposium, the Robotics and AI Symposium, AIM Day Ag North, RoboHub Fall Symposium, and the Chatham-Kent Ag Career Day. Bridget suggested the idea of organizing a trial program where producers could test different robotic solutions across various sites, which Noah and Izmir supported. Guillaume shared an example of a successful leasing program they conducted with a farmer this summer, which provided an opportunity to demonstrate their technology to other producers. The group agreed that Guillaume would present his experience at a future meeting, and Dan offered to follow up with him to arrange a presentation date.
Agricultural Robotics Research Planning
The group discussed available research funds for validating and demonstrating technologies through March 2026, with Bridget noting that projects should focus on the next two to three months and be submitted to the research subcommittee. Cesar suggested creating a more visible portfolio of agricultural robotics products on the AgRobotics website to help increase awareness among farmers, which Bridget supported. The discussion concluded with David emphasizing the need for regular assessments of technology adoption among farmers, suggesting that grower associations should collect and analyze data on current technology usage, financing methods, and future needs.
