Semios, provider of real-time agricultural information for precision farming, launches a new Frost Module. “The Semios Frost Module, takes the guess work out of frost protection on a per acre basis,” said Michael Gilbert, CEO of Semios. “It alerts farmers when there is cause for concern and tracks the outcome of frost mitigation tools in action, so the farmer can respond accordingly or get a good nights sleep.” The Frost Module is part of a custom designed controller and sensor network that gives farmers remote access to the conditions in the field 24/7. Other modules include Pest Management, Disease Control and Irrigation Management.
The Semios platform captures and logs data from a network of sensors placed on every acre of a grower’s property. From site-specific sensors, the frost module monitors temperature inversions (up to 20' high) every 10 minutes, provides wet bulb calculations and sprinkler thresholds based on stage of bud development. When a frost alert is sent by txt and email, growers know exactly where action needs to be taken and furthermore can determine if their frost mitigation tools are having the desired effect or need to be adjusted for efficiency.
Mr. Scott Hassle of Berrybrook Enterprises, said, “Having Semios Frost Alert text me with the data I needed to know, made my decision to start the wind machines a lot easier. I was able to return indoors and watch the graphs map the evolving field conditions, giving me peace of mind." Berrybrook came online with the Frost Module the day before the first frost hit and found it very easy to use.
In 2015, this service was launched to existing Semios customers on 5,000 acres of apple, pear, grapes, walnuts, almonds, pistachios and citrus orchards. Each sensor station has the ability to run any module, so a simple activation by Semios is all that is required. Modules have video tutorials and Semios customer support is available 24/7. The cost for the Semios Frost Module is $10 US per acre per year. Subscription platform packages start at $60 US per acre per year.
Source: Growing California