Delta smart-farming project and new training programs aim to strengthen BC food security

A new smart-farming initiative in Delta and two training programs at Fraser Valley universities are working to strengthen British Columbia's food security through advanced technology and climate-resilient growing methods.

Delta-based Windset Farms is developing a smart-farming system that uses sensors to monitor plant stress and automate greenhouse management decisions. The project, supported by the BC Centre for Agritech Innovation (BCCAI), uses advanced data analytics and machine learning to optimize climate control, nutrient uptake, and early disease detection in hydroponic tomatoes.

"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," said Tony Kalf, chief technology officer at Windset Farms. "These innovations allow us to make meaningful impacts through job creation, new business opportunities and by ensuring the security and stability of BC's food supply."

The project emerged from a 2023 agreement between Simon Fraser University and Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands to collaborate on agricultural sustainability challenges. Windset is also partnering with tech companies Koidra and Vivent on the initiative.

Training for drought-resistant farming

Kwantlen Polytechnic University is developing a training program focused on dry farming—a method that cultivates crops with little to no additional water using specific agro-ecological measures. The program is a collaboration between KPU's Institute for Sustainable Food Systems, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food's Regional Extension Program, local farmers, and industry groups.

"We're engaging dozens of farmers, professionals and students on soil health, agro-ecology, soil and weather data collection, and advancing drought-resilient farming," said Kent Mullinix, director of KPU's Institute for Sustainable Food Systems.

Robotic weeding technology

The University of the Fraser Valley is demonstrating new robotic-weeding technology to address challenges facing fruit and vegetable producers. Weeds compete for moisture, nutrients, and sunlight, impacting productivity across the sector.

The UFV project trains farmers and students on robotic weeding technologies that reduce labour reliance, minimize herbicide use, and improve sustainability through efficient resource management.

"The partnership with BCCAI enables new opportunities for students on current agricultural issues and shows them the types of skills and work opportunities available in agricultural robotics," said Renee Prasad, department head and associate professor of agriculture technology at UFV.

Investment and impact

The three projects represent a total investment of approximately $658,000, with $280,000 from BCCAI, $204,000 from industry partners, and an in-kind industry contribution valued at $174,000.

More than 350 people are expected to receive advanced training in areas including horticulture, regenerative agriculture, data management, and agri-business management. The initiatives are also projected to create three new jobs and increase business opportunities through commercialization.

"With a changing climate and uncertainty from the US, 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," said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth.

The work is part of the province's Look West plan for jobs and industry, which aims to strengthen the workforce and develop a more independent economy. The BC government has invested $6.5 million over three years toward BCCAI, while the federal government is contributing up to $10 million through Pacific Economic Development Canada over five years.

Since opening in September 2022 at SFU's Surrey campus, BCCAI has created 78 jobs, launched 33 projects with 29 agriculture businesses and 55 delivery partners, brought 24 products and services to market, and trained 2,074 people through workshops, training programs, and conferences.