A new initiative is set to bring ‘smart’ agriculture technology to farms across North Wales, with the aim of improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The project, funded by taxpayers through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by Mentera on behalf of Ambition North Wales, will focus on testing Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) systems as part of the Smart Agriculture Internet of Things (IoT) project.
The on-farm trials will explore how IoT-based solutions can be integrated into daily farm operations. LoRaWAN technology, known for its long-range, low-power capabilities, is expected to support remote monitoring and management of various aspects of farming, including livestock, water systems, soil health, and infrastructure.
Siwan Howaston, head of technical at Mentera, highlighted the significance of this initiative: “This is a fantastic opportunity for farmers in North Wales to be at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The adoption of technologies like LoRaWAN is crucial for creating more resilient, productive, and sustainable farm businesses.”
The potential benefits of LoRaWAN technology are vast. Real-time soil moisture and temperature sensors could guide optimal slurry application, reducing environmental risks and improving regulatory compliance. Sensors could also detect water tank levels and identify leaks, preventing loss and infrastructure damage. Additionally, the technology could support livestock tracking, infrastructure monitoring, and the remote management of gates and machinery.
Farms participating in the trials will receive technical support from an agri-tech specialist to implement and assess the solutions. The programme is open to farms in various sectors, including dairy, red meat, pig, poultry, arable, and horticulture, across Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Anglesey, and Wrexham.
Cllr Nia Jeffreys, lead member for Ambition North Wales’s Digital Connectivity Programme and leader of Cyngor Gwynedd, emphasized the transformative potential of the project: “The transformative potential of this project is significant for the farmers involved. All equipment is provided and installed, with the option to continue use if they find the trial to be beneficial – so there could be much to gain.”
The trials are scheduled to begin in September and continue through to February 1, 2026. Mentera is currently seeking 16 farms across North Wales to join the network. Interested farmers have until midnight on August 27 to submit their applications via Mentera’s website.
This initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing agricultural practices in North Wales. By embracing smart agriculture technology, farmers can potentially enhance their operations, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future for the region’s agricultural sector.