AI project to weed out Dorset’s ragwort

An innovative project using AI robots to weed out ragwort is ‘roaring’ ahead in Dorset thanks to Qualcomm Incorporated.

The Ragwort Observation by Autonomous Robots (ROAR) project has been made possible by Qualcomm Incorporated, through its Wireless Reach™ Initiative, which aims to transform lives around the world.

The grant has been awarded to a team led by Cornish robotics firm Robotriks in collaboration with Dorset Council. Robotriks will manage the project on farmland owned by Dorset Council.

Using robots and artificial intelligence (AI), ROAR aims to identify and eliminate ragwort efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way. While recognising ragwort’s ecological benefits, Dorset Council is committed to balancing efforts to promote biodiversity with regulatory compliance to protect livestock by controlling its spread in high-risk areas.

Cllr Richard Biggs, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Property & Assets and Economic Growth, said:  “We are delighted to have attracted such a prestigious and globally important investment to show that the innovation work we do in Dorset has the potential to have an impact everywhere.

“The ROAR initiative will not only support local farmers and protect our agricultural heritage, but it will also demonstrate the huge potential technology developed in Dorset has for improving economic growth and protecting the environment.

“By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, we can provide a sustainable solution to the ragwort problem, improving animal welfare and boosting the productivity of our farms.”

The ROAR project will deliver an advanced weed control method. By developing weed probe robots and a machine vision model for ragwort recognition, these invasive weeds will be removed from agricultural land swiftly and without using harmful chemicals.

Field trials in Dorset will help the project partners gain real-world insights and refine the technology for eventual implementation in other areas and countries.

Jake Gibson Shaw-Sutton at Robotriks said: “This initiative will be incredibly helpful to local farmers and council workers, by making ragwort control safer and more efficient.

“Farmers will benefit from reduced risks to their livestock and improved productivity, while council workers will find the process less labour-intensive and safer.

“The project’s success could serve as a model for other regions facing similar issues, demonstrating the potential of AI-driven solutions in agriculture.”