2018 HACKATHON RESULTS
50+ attendees
9 participants
5 panelists
4 judges
2 days
1 AMAZING OPPORTUNITY
1ST PLACE: CropShot
by Erik Tetland, Ben Lewis, and Kulani Zwane
PROBLEM: Crop imaging is difficult to scale
SOLUTION: In-field time-lapse photography
Erik, Ben and Kulani proposed an in-field time-lapse photography unit to increase efficiency of crop surveillance. They identified the issue of crop imaging, which is difficult to scale. Their solution incorporates automated collection and streaming of crop images and time-lapse images in a robust interface. For example, fertilizer companies could mount cameras to show the effects of their products on the growth rate and maturity of crops post-application. The camera can be mounted wherever the farmer or agronomist sees fit (e.g. high/dry or low/wet areas, trials, etc.) and is solar powered. In-field time-lapse photography would serve as an alternative for drone monitoring/ scouting, which is more expensive, technologically intimidating, and less consistent. The visual data is tangible and easy to understand, easily accessible, user friendly, and reduces human interaction. We hope to see this implemented soon!
Runner-Up: EcoGenX
by Dallon Leger and Brooke Switzer
PROBLEM: Inefficient communication process for producers to get in touch with EcoGenX to pick-up used grain bags
SOLUTION: Producers input their location and weight (amount) of plastic into an app which generates a map for EcoGenX to increase pick-up efficiency
Dallon and Brooke proposed an app to track the pick-up orders for their already established customer base for grain bag recycling. As of January 2018, it is illegal for farmers to burn their grain bags, with fines reaching up to $10,000. EcoGenX plans to partner with grain bag distributors, who will charge a fee for Dallon & Brooke’s pick-up service. The judging was based on the app they proposed to further their business with the help of technology. Grain bag users download the app, enter their location and weight (amount) of the plastic, and the app produces a map so Dallon and Brooke can plan their pick-up route. This reduces effort for the farmers (who previously burnt their bags or had to physically call EcoGenX and pay for them to drive out) and increases efficiency for EcoGenX. After pick-up, the plastic will then be recycled.
Inter-Seed
by Zayda Morales and Mayra Samaniego
PROBLEM: Producers lack the knowledge and information to intercrop
SOLUTION: Producers input their location and soil characteristics into an app which suggests varieties to seed together
Intercropping is a hot topic- but producers do not have the knowledge and information to intercrop. These ladies proposed an app in which the producer inputs their location, soil type, soil moisture, soil chemical properties, etc. and the software suggests crops and varieties that they should seed together. Intercropping can yield very high revenue if done correctly. Intercropping is beneficial to increase crop/soil stability, reduce chemical use, and naturally control pests and pathogens. They are currently implementing their idea and can be found at intercropping.ca.
Farms2Forks
by Uchi Uchibeke and David Lutzer
PROBLEM: Food traceability between producers and consumers
SOLUTION: Consumers input their preferences into the Farms2Forks platform and are delivered locally produced food
David and Uchi proposed software that brings farm-fresh food to consumers. Users register on the platform, set their food preferences and place an order. They can also reorder by just sending a text from their cellphone to the Farms2Forks platform. The platform orders from producers and the food is delivered to consumers through Farms2Forks food carriers. Farms2Forks enables users to connect with the farm-fresh produce and livestock to the faces that produce them. This will be made possible via a range of intentional and customizable campaigns involving the farmers.