Transforming Soybean Farming in Brazil with Agras T40
In the vast and varied landscapes of Brazil, soybean farming is not just an agricultural pursuit; it's a significant economic endeavor that feeds the nation and fuels global markets. However, the challenges of maintaining high-yield and quality crops amidst pests, weeds, and unpredictable weather have always been formidable. With Agriculture drone technology, modern farmers are transforming how they cultivate their lands.
Soybean farming is a critical component of Brazil's agriculture, contributing significantly to both domestic food supplies and international trade. With global demand on the rise, Brazilian farmers are under pressure to increase yields while maintaining sustainable practices.
This case study highlights how Brazilian farmers in Paraná are leveraging this cutting-edge technology to overcome traditional farming hurdles and achieve unprecedented efficiency and productivity.
Challenges in Soybean Cultivation
This case study takes place in the fertile region of Cambé, located in the State of Paraná, Brazil. This area is renowned for its agricultural productivity, particularly in soybean cultivation. However, the local climate and ecology present unique challenges like pests, diseases, and weeds that farmers must contend with.
Pests and Diseases
The primary challenge for soybean farmers in Paraná is managing pests and diseases that threaten crop health and yield including a variety of persistent weeds like Coniza, Amaranthus, and Digitaria insularis, as well as insect pests such as the Euschistus bug and fungi like Phakosphora.
Insects, fungi, and weeds not only impact the immediate season's output but can also affect long-term soil health and crop viability.
Climate and Environmental Factors
The region's climate, which ranges from 15ºC to 32ºC with varying humidity and wind speeds, complicates spraying operations. Effective pest control requires precise timing and application, which can be thwarted by unpredictable weather conditions.
The Shortcomings of Traditional Techniques
Historically, farmers in Paraná relied on self-propelled sprayers to treat their fields. These machines, while effective, were costly and impractical, especially in rugged terrains. The maintenance costs were high, and the output, despite being expansive with a 30 m width and 2500 L capacity, did not justify the expenses incurred.
Using traditional methods, it took around 20 hours and cost approximately $5 per hectare to manage a standard plot, with outcomes often falling short of expectations. The inability to operate efficiently post-rain or in complex terrains further added to the inefficiencies.
Introducing Agriculture Drones to the Farm
Danilo Bordini, a forward-thinking farmer, recognized the limitations of traditional farming equipment and sought innovative solutions. Reliability and reduced operational costs were the main drivers for adopting Agras T40. After learning about Agriculture drones in 2021 through New Agro Prime, a local dealer, Danilo decided to integrate this technology into his farming practices in 2023.
The Agras T40 Revolution
Drone Intervention and Operation Workflow
Danilo teamed up with the crew from New Agro Prime, which included 3 members with over 5,000 hectares of soybean, corn, and wheat field under their belt. One focused on piloting the drone, one handled the chemicals, and one dealt with recharging the batteries.
The drone intervention took place during optimal weather conditions—sunny days with temperatures ranging from 15º C to 32º C, and wind speeds between 4-15 km/h. First the team mapped the target fields and while preparing the chemical solution to be applied. Then, using the Agras T40, Danilo and his team performed ten flights over 2.5 hours.
| Description | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Types | Insecticide, Fungicide, Growth Regulator, Foliar Fertilizer |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Application Rate | 11 L/ha |
| Droplet Size | 370 µm |
| Flight Speed | 23 km/h |
| Route Spacing | 8.5 m |
| Height Above the Crop | 4 m |
Advantages and Features
The Agras T40's advantages included low maintenance costs, precision in targeting pests, and adaptability to the region's varying terrains. Key features such as terrain following and atomized spray systems ensured accurate application, saving time and resources.
Chemical Solutions and Application
Targeted Pest Control
For this operation, chemicals such as tebuconazole, imidacloprid, and glyphosate were employed. These were selected for their efficacy in controlling the specific pests and weeds prevalent in the area.
Results and Impact
Comparative Analysis
Post-treatment, the results were impressive. Three days after the treatment, Danilo inspected the crops and noted that there was a noticeable elimination of bugs, a halt in fungi proliferation, and effective weed control compared to untreated plots. The precision and efficiency of the drone intervention marked a significant improvement over previous methods.
End-User Testimonial
Danilo Bordini expressed his satisfaction, stating, "We used to work with a very good sprayer, and we are working with an Agras T40 now. I don't come back to the sprayer anymore. The drone isn't perfect, it suffers more with the wind speed, covers less terrain than my old sprayer, but the maintenance cost is lower, the water use is one tenth of what we are used to, you don't need to wait the soil dry after a rain... The balance is positive for the drone."
Guiding Future Farmers
For those considering the integration of Agriculture drones, Danilo advises, "Before buying it, watch, accompany, talk with someone who is already in the business." His experience underscores the importance of understanding the technology and its applications before implementation.
Conclusion The Future of Soybean Farming
In conclusion, the integration of Agras T40 drones in soybean farming in Brazil represents a significant leap forward in agricultural innovation. By combining precision technology with sustainable practices, farmers can achieve higher yields and better resource management. For agricultural innovators, drone enthusiasts, and modern farmers, this case study serves as a testament to the benefits of adopting cutting-edge solutions in farming.
The future of soybean farming is here, and it's powered by Agriculture.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to Danilo Bordini for sharing his insights and experiences.
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