AI-powered drones spearhead efficiency gains in spring plowing
High-tech spring plowing has taken center stage in Tailai County, Qiqihar City of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, where AI-equipped drones are being rolled out to boost efficiency and precision as the farming season begins.
In Heidi Village, Shengli Township, rice paddies are being simultaneously puddled, leveled, and fertilized as agricultural drones equipped with BeiDou navigation take off with loads of fertilizer. Under the precise scheduling of AI modeling system, the drones released fertilizer at a steady pace, ensuring uniform coverage.
"In the past, fertilizers were spread manually. We could manage only around one hectare per day, and the fertilizer couldn't be applied evenly. Now, with drones, we can cover 47 to 53 hectares per day, and the application is accurate. It's very helpful," said Wang Shuo, a local farmer.
The AI system can analyze factors such as local soil conditions, rice varieties, and nutrient requirements, using algorithms to calculate the exact fertilizer needs for different plots. This enables truly targeted and precise fertilization.
"The adoption of AI drone technology allows farmers to complete precise fertilization while puddling. It is a one-step solution which greatly improves both efficiency and accuracy," said Li Jinhua, a staff member from the agricultural station in Shengli Township.
Currently, all 10 townships in Tailai County have implemented the operational model equipped with AI. It is expected that rice transplanting will begin in early May.
