Coleg Glynllifon, a key player within Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, recently opened its doors to the Agri-Tech Cymru Cluster, managed by M-SParc, for an enlightening visit that underscored the college’s commitment to driving innovation in the farming sector. The event, held at the college’s land-based campus near Caernarfon, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Ambition North Wales, Bangor University, BionerG, Coleg Cambria, Data Cymru, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Menter Môn, M-SParc, and Wynnstay. The primary goal was to foster collaboration and showcase the latest agri-tech advancements that are set to revolutionize farming practices in north Wales.
The day kicked off with a comprehensive presentation led by Rhodri Owen, the farm, forestry, and innovation manager at Glynllifon. Owen delved into the past, present, and future of agri-tech innovations being trialled at the campus, setting the stage for a hands-on exploration of the technologies in the workshops. Attendees were treated to demonstrations of cutting-edge tools, including the UK’s first fully autonomous, commercially available tractor, AgBot, and Chirrup.ai, an AI-powered tool designed to monitor biodiversity by identifying the calls of 148 different bird species. The presentation also highlighted the planned sheep-milking centre, a project aimed at creating new business opportunities for Welsh sheep farmers.
The event showcased a range of pioneering technologies and studies currently underway at Glynllifon. These included trials of hydroponics for growing crops, TechnoGrazing systems for sheep and cattle, biological fly control in pig units, and the use of LoRaWAN sensors to aid farmers’ decision-making processes. Each of these innovations represents a step forward in enhancing farm productivity, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
Pryderi ap Rhisiart, managing director of M-SParc, emphasized the significance of the event 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 such events in disseminating the latest agri-tech developments. “It was great to see the innovation taking place at Glynllifon and how improving farm production efficiency and protecting water quality go hand in hand,” he said. “Events like these are important for advocating those win-win benefits for farm profitability and the wider environment.”
Martin Jardine, Grŵp Llandrillo Menai director of Agri Food, highlighted the college’s role in supporting the agri-food sector. “Coleg Glynllifon was delighted to welcome stakeholders to see first-hand the innovations and technological developments being trialled at the campus,” he said. “Looking ahead, Coleg Glynllifon will play a key role in delivering skills and continuing professional development for the sector.” Jardine also mentioned the exciting developments in progress that will support the sector in diversifying, adopting new technologies, increasing productivity, and improving sustainability.
