ADVANCING PEST MANAGEMENT FOR GRAPES AND BERRIES WITH ROBOTIC SPRAYING SYSTEM

The primary goal of the project is to develop and demonstrate a robotic spraying system for pest management in grape and berry fields to save pesticides and reduce chemical drift. Over the long term, the project is expected to provide an advanced plant protection tool for sustainable production and communities. Three objectives are included to achieve the proposed goal.Objective #1: Develop a robotic spraying system with an unmanned ground robot to reduce chemical usage and automate spraying operations.Objective #2: Field evaluation of the newly developed spraying system in grape and berry fields for sprayer performance and disease control efficacy.Objective #3: Extension and outreach for technology introduction, demonstration, and adoption to small fruit growers.