LeaderBrand’s new AI weed management on Gisborne farm – Carbon Robotics G2 Laser Weeder

Gordon McPhail of LeaderBrand says AI technology will "revolutionise the way we farm". Photo / LeaderBrand

A grower has introduced high-resolution cameras, artificial intelligence, and laser technology to control weeds on its Gisborne farm.

LeaderBrand, with funding support from the Ministry for Primary Industries under the Primary Sector Growth Fund, said the Carbon Robotics G2 Laser Weeder would revolutionise the way it farmed and managed weeds.

The company said the new technology detects and removes weeds as tiny as the top of a ballpoint pen, without disturbing the soil or impacting the crops.

“This new technology will be pivotal in helping the farm reduce carbon emissions, improve soil health, increase productivity, and produce a more consistent quality of crops, which will ultimately help Kiwis have more access to affordable leafy greens,” a company statement said.

LeaderBrand’s general manager of farming, Gordon McPhail, said reducing emissions, better soil management and finding new ways to farm sustainably with cutting-edge technology were important focuses for the team.

“We’re always looking for different ways we can be more sustainable, and soil health is a key driver; this new weed management technology is another step in the right direction. This is a huge milestone for us.

“There is no doubt this technology will revolutionise the way we farm, and it’s not often that we get to say that, let alone experience it right here in Gisborne.”

He said LeaderBrand faced significant weed-burden issues, which affected its ability to grow reliable, quality salad greens indoors and outdoors.

“Weed burden increases our cost of production; it also reduces the quality and volume of crops we can grow. It has a flow-on effect to our production facility and ultimately our customers.

“This new weed killer tech will significantly improve our efficiency, increase our rotations, reduce waste, and lessen environmental impact.”

McPhail said AI technology and innovation continued to advance significantly in the farming space.

“This technology is all about creating better jobs that are less physically demanding and creating exciting new roles that will hopefully encourage more of the younger generation to get excited about farming.”