Get to know plot 8—the Sensor Sandbox!
As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, Grand Farm’s Sensor Sandbox emerges as a cutting-edge initiative at the intersection of precision farming and technology. Located at the Grand Farm Innovation Campus in North Dakota, this project is designed to test, evaluate, and showcase IoT (Internet of Things) sensors in real-world farm environments. From improving connectivity in rural areas to optimizing field operations, the Sensor Sandbox aims to revolutionize how farmers collect and use data.
What is the Sensor Sandbox?
The Sensor Sandbox is a testing environment where innovative IoT sensors are deployed to gather real-time data on field conditions. This initiative focuses on three core objectives:
Communication Protocols
Testing connectivity methods like LoRaWAN, Private Cellular (4G), and fiber broadband to ensure reliable data transmission.
Sensor Functionality
Evaluating various types of sensors to monitor parameters such as soil moisture, temperature, and CO2 levels.
Data Utilization
Exploring ways to translate sensor data into actionable insights for farmers, such as optimizing irrigation and improving crop management.
The Tech
Connectivity is at the heart of the Sensor Sandbox. Rural farms often face challenges with cellular coverage, so the project incorporates advanced communication technologies, including partnerships with Dakota Carrier Network and North Dakota State University. The results include seamless data transmission over distances of up to 10 miles with solutions like LoRaWAN gateways.
Sensor Sandbox Statistics
8 – Active Companies
16 – Sensors Deployed
4 – Communication Protocols
(LoRaWAN, Cellular, Private Cellular, Fiber Broadband)
Data Collected
Ambient temperature and humidity, wind speed/gust and direction, pressure, solar radiation, rainfall, CO2, soil moisture and temperature, and soil nitrogen.
The Innovation Campus
Located in Casselton, ND, this hub provides a realworld environment for startups to test ag-tech solutions. Future Farmer has covered the campus in a few different articles since it’s opening last year, but the great thing about this Grand Farm project—it’s always updating and innovating (hence the name).
So, make sure you check out this link to learn more and stay up to date on what they’re doing.
Keep reading to learn more about the 2024 innovation campus participants.
Startups Driving Innovation
The Sensor Sandbox collaborates with eight companies, ranging from startups to established tech leaders. Notable participants include:
Soiltech Wireless – Specializing in underground soil sensors
Arable – Offering mature weather and crop monitoring systems
Tempest Dronework – Leveraging aerial imagery to enhance precision farming.
Did You Know?
Grand Farm’s Innovation Shop offers event spaces for rent, hosting groups from 30 to 500 attendees. Whether you’re planning a meeting, training session, or large-scale demonstration, their facilities can be tailored to your needs. Partners enjoy a 50% discount on rental rates. Explore the available spaces and book your next event by scaning the QR code!
Why This Matters To Farmers
With the data collected, farmers can make smarter decisions, such as determining optimal irrigation schedules or analyzing weather conditions to improve crop yields. These advancements bring farmers closer to sustainable and efficient practices while reducing operational costs.
How To Get Involved
Interested in testing your sensors or collaborating? Contact Nathan Marcotte at [email protected]
Learn more at grandfarm.com
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