Applied research in real-world conditions
We validate technology in commercial settings, not just controlled trials. Our research programs partner with universities and industry organizations to generate data that matters for grower decisions.
Our approach: Grower outcomes first. University partnerships provide rigorous validation, but the real test is whether technology delivers measurable economic impact in working operations.
Active programs
Washington State University
Applied research initiative deploying precision agriculture technologies in commercial tree fruit orchards. Green Atlas has been a core technology partner since Smart Orchard's inception, providing LiDAR-based canopy and crop load intelligence that drives precision management decisions.
Focus areas
- •Precision irrigation and fertigation
- •Crop load management with Green Atlas
- •Labor optimization technologies
- •Decision support systems
Outcomes
Multi-year deployment generating actionable data on technology ROI in commercial orchard conditions.
BerrySmart Fields
USHBC / Industry Collaboration
Industry-supported initiative advancing precision agriculture adoption in blueberry production. Green Atlas canopy intelligence and Bitwise GreenView yield forecasting are core technologies in the program, alongside METOS environmental sensing and SWAN Systems irrigation optimization.
Focus areas
- •Yield forecasting accuracy
- •Canopy and crop load intelligence
- •Harvest timing optimization
- •Quality preservation practices
Outcomes
1.97 billion blueberries counted · 432 million images analyzed · Forecasts covering 79,000 hectares.
Snohomish County / Regional Partners
Regional initiative supporting technology adoption for diversified agriculture in the Pacific Northwest. Bringing precision ag tools to mid-sized operations.
Focus areas
- •Technology accessibility for mid-sized farms
- •Regional crop diversity applications
- •Grower training and adoption support
- •Local economic impact tracking
Outcomes
Expanding access to digital tools beyond large-scale commodity operations.
University collaborations
We work with leading agricultural research institutions to validate technology performance and develop best practices. University partners provide scientific rigor; commercial deployments prove real-world value.
Washington State University
Tree fruit, precision agriculture, automation
Oregon State University
Berry crops, sustainable production systems
Rutgers University
Blueberry production, crop quality
University of Florida
Blueberry, warm-climate berry production
USDA-funded AI and data science for agriculture
Note: University relationships represent collaborative research and validation work. They do not imply exclusive partnerships or product endorsements.
Why applied research matters
Controlled research trials answer "does this work?" Applied research in commercial settings answers "does this work for me?"
Our program deployments generate performance data from real operations facing real constraints—variable weather, labor availability, equipment compatibility, and economic pressures. This data informs product development and helps growers make adoption decisions with confidence.
When we say a technology improves labor efficiency or yield forecasting, we have data from working farms to support it.
See the results for yourself
Our grower testimonials show real outcomes from real operations. Or talk to our team about how these technologies apply to your situation.