In a significant stride towards bolstering food security and fostering the agritech sector, a novel smart-farming initiative in Delta, British Columbia, is making waves. This project, backed by the B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation (BCCAI), is a collaborative effort involving Windset Farms, Simon Fraser University (SFU), Koidra, Vivent, and Wageningen University & Research (WUR) from the Netherlands.
The project’s core lies in the development of a smart-farming system that automates decision-making processes. This is achieved through sensors that monitor plant stress and manage greenhouse crops efficiently. By leveraging advanced data analytics and machine learning, the project aims to enhance Windset’s production systems. The system optimizes climate control, nutrient uptake, and early disease detection in hydroponic tomatoes, thereby improving the overall quality and consistency of the produce.
Tony Kalf, Chief Technology Officer at Windset Farms, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “This partnership helps us develop advanced smart-farming systems that improve real-time greenhouse monitoring, optimize climate and nutrient management, and detect potential plant disease earlier.” He further emphasized the project’s potential to create jobs, open new business opportunities, and ensure the security and stability of B.C.’s food supply.
The project’s inception can be traced back to a 2023 letter of intent between SFU and WUR. This agreement aimed to collaborate on future research programs and address agricultural sustainability challenges, including food production and climate change.
In addition to the smart-farming project, two new training programs are being introduced to equip individuals with the necessary skills to thrive in the agritech sector. The first program, developed by Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), focuses on drought-resilient crop production systems. It will train participants in dry farming, a method that cultivates crops with minimal or no additional water. This program is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Agriculture and Food’s Regional Extension Program, KPU’s Institute for Sustainable Food Systems, local growers, and industry groups.
The second training program, developed by the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), demonstrates new robotic-weeding technology. This technology aims to reduce labor reliance, minimize herbicide use, and improve sustainability through efficient resource management. The program will provide hands-on training to farmers and students, exposing them to the latest advancements in agricultural robotics.
These initiatives represent a total investment of approximately $658,000, with $280,000 from BCCAI, $204,000 from industry, and an in-kind industry contribution valued at $174,000. The projects are expected to provide advanced training to over 350 people in areas such as horticulture, regenerative agriculture, data management, and agri-business management. They are also anticipated to create three new jobs and increase business opportunities through commercialization.
Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, highlighted the importance of these initiatives, stating, “With a changing climate and uncertainty from the U.S., it’s critical that two of British Columbia’s greatest strengths, technology and agriculture, come together to ensure British Columbians can rely on healthy food grown here at home.” He further emphasized the role of the Look West plan in connecting innovators with industry partners to drive the economy forward in a sustainable future.
Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food, echoed these sentiments, stating, “B.C.-developed technology is helping our farmers increase production and make our food supply more resilient to climate change.” She emphasized the importance of using the latest technology to monitor plant growth and health, maximize water and nutrient efficiency, and produce sustainably grown, local food for B.C. families.
Gregor Robertson, federal Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, also expressed his support, stating, “PacifiCan investments are driving local innovation and helping B.C. businesses grow. The B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation is advancing groundbreaking technologies and hands-on training opportunities in the agriculture sector, improving food security and building a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy.”
Rahul Singh, Director of B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation, emphasized the importance of technology and training in delivering real impact. He stated, “For technology to deliver real impact, it must go hand in hand with training and upskilling the workforce. BCCAI is proud to support three new projects that focus on technological innovation and hands-on learning. These initiatives demonstrate the power of collaboration in driving sustainable agriculture and food security.”
These initiatives are part of the Province’s Look West plan for jobs and industry, which aims to deliver jobs and opportunities by strengthening the workforce and developing a more independent economy. The plan focuses on delivering major projects quicker, diversifying markets, and growing targeted sectors, such