Precision agriculture and digitalization in arable farming
WUR Field Crops Lelystad is a leading test and validation site where innovations in precision agriculture, data-driven cultivation, and autonomous machines are researched and optimized. The location offers extensive facilities for testing new technologies in practice, with a strong focus on improving efficiency and sustainability in arable farming.
NXTGEN Handsfree Agrifood activities
Within NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood, WUR Field Crops Lelystad is used as a test environment for the further development and validation of smart and autonomous agricultural systems. The focus is on data-driven cultivation optimization, digitalization, and automation.
Precision agriculture and data-driven optimization
At the site, a combination of sensors, drones, and AI-driven analysis tools is used to collect real-time data on soil conditions, crop development, and climate influences. This data supports improved decision-making regarding fertilization, irrigation, and crop protection, making precision agriculture increasingly accurate and sustainable.
Automation and autonomous field systems
Within NXTGEN, autonomous agricultural machines and robots are being tested in Lelystad that can independently perform tasks such as seeding, weed control, and harvesting. This contributes to more efficient operations and reduces reliance on labor-intensive processes.
Digital Twin and simulation of agricultural processes
At the test site, Digital Twin technology is used to create a digital replica of the agricultural environment. This enables researchers and farmers to simulate cultivation scenarios, test variables, and validate new technologies before applying them in practice.
Possibilities for a testing location at WUR Open Crops Lelystad
Physical Infrastructure
Extensive trial fields for practice-oriented experiments in arable farming.
Advanced sensors and drones for real-time soil and crop monitoring.
Autonomous agricultural machinery for automated cultivation and harvesting processes.
Facilities for demonstrations and validation of new technologies.
Digital Infrastructure
Data platforms and dashboards for monitoring and analysis of agricultural data.
AI-driven software for autonomous decision-making and process optimization.
Digital Twin models for simulation and optimization of cultivation strategies.
Cloud-based storage for linking and sharing research data.
Expertise and Support
Researchers and data specialists support testing and validation processes.
Innovation experts assist in the implementation of new technologies.
Collaboration opportunities between farmers, technology companies, and knowledge institutions.
Want to know more about testing and validating Innovation Package 1?
Within NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood, innovations are tested and optimized to take the next step toward real-world application. Curious about the opportunities and how use cases are advancing their innovations? Our Innovation Package Lead, Natalie Hotrum, will be happy to tell you more.