Coleg Glynllifon, part of Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, recently hosted an enlightening visit for the Agri-Tech Cymru Cluster, managed by M-SParc. The event, held at the college’s land-based campus near Caernarfon, brought together a diverse group of organisations to explore and discuss the latest innovations in the farming sector.
The Agri-Tech Cymru Cluster, established to foster collaboration and innovation in north Wales’ agricultural industry, saw representatives from Ambition North Wales, Bangor University, BionerG, Coleg Cambria, Data Cymru, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Menter Môn, M-SParc, and Wynnstay gather at Glynllifon. The day began with a presentation on the past, current, and future agri-tech innovations being trialled at the college, followed by a hands-on experience with some of the cutting-edge technologies in the workshops.
Attendees were introduced to a range of pioneering technologies, including the UK’s first fully autonomous, commercially available tractor, AgBot, and Chirrup.ai, an AI-powered tool that monitors biodiversity by identifying the calls of 148 different bird species. The planned sheep-milking centre, aimed at developing a new business opportunity for Welsh sheep farmers, was also a highlight of the presentation.
The session delved into recent studies at Glynllifon, such as hydroponics trials to grow crops, TechnoGrazing systems for sheep and cattle, biological fly control in pig units, and the use of LoRaWAN sensors to aid farmers’ decision-making. These innovations are not only pushing the boundaries of agricultural technology but also addressing real-world challenges faced by farmers in the region.
Pryderi ap Rhisiart, M-SParc managing director, emphasised the importance of such events in fostering collaboration and driving progress in the agri-tech sector. “Glynllifon provided the perfect setting to showcase the latest innovations shaping the future of agriculture,” he said. “The Agri-Tech Cluster is all about fostering collaboration, and events like this highlight the power of bringing together industry, academia, and technology to drive progress.”
Alwyn Roberts, water project manager for Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of events like these in disseminating the latest agri-tech developments and advocating for the benefits of improved farm production efficiency and water quality protection.
Martin Jardine, Grŵp Llandrillo Menai director of Agri Food, expressed his delight in welcoming stakeholders to see the innovations and technological developments being trialled at the campus. He highlighted Coleg Glynllifon’s role in delivering skills and continuing professional development for the sector, as well as supporting the industry to diversify, adopt new technologies, increase productivity, and improve sustainability.
The event at Coleg Glynllifon served as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in driving the future of agriculture. By bringing together industry, academia, and technology, the Agri-Tech Cymru Cluster is paving the way for a more sustainable and productive farming sector in north Wales.
