SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – “Tom Gamble is on his tractor, going row by row, cutting the grasses at his vineyards at Gamble Estates, the winery he founded north of Napa,” reported KCBS Radio’s Mike DeWald this week from Napa Valley. “But this is no ordinary tractor.”
For more, stream KCBS Radio now.
DeWald explained that the tractor is “basically a computer on wheels,” likening it to Waymo autonomous vehicles. It’s a model from a company called Monarch Tractor, based in Livermore, Calif. This company is on a mission to use tech to improve farming with, including artificial intelligence.
“The MK-V is designed to enhance farming operations and safety by keeping the farmer in control, whether you’re in the seat or operating autonomously,” it said of one of its models. “Effortlessly switch between operating a single tractor or overseeing a fleet of autonomous tractors.”
DeWald explained that the Monarch at Gamble Estates is electric and has the ability to be fully autonomous. He said it’s also equipped with cameras and sensors to constantly collect data.
Gamble’s family has tended to land in Napa Valley for nearly 110 years and he bought his first vineyard in 1981. Now, the cameras on the Monarch allow Gamble to see happenings in his grape vines before the human eye can.
“Finding those blemishes early means higher yields, better quality, and a longer lasting output,” said DeWald.
Want to get caught up on what's happening in SoCal every weekday afternoon? Click to follow The L.A. Local wherever you get podcasts.
Right now, only early adopters are using the Monarch to help their vineyard operations. DeWald noted that these operators have seen multiple benefits, including less noise and thousands in fuel cost savings.
“[You can] really see how what’s happening with technology in the vineyard as being better for people, planet, and profits, the three key P’s of sustainability,” said Gamble.
Follow KNX News 97.1 FM