SheepIT, an E-Shepherd System for Weed Control in Vineyards: Experimental Results and Lessons Learned

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Animal Science
• Sustainable Agriculture

Background:

• Traditional vineyard weed control relies on machinery and herbicides, causing environmental pollution and high costs.
• The historical practice of using sheep for vineyard weeding was abandoned due to the need for shepherds to prevent vine damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To automate the role of human shepherds in vineyard management using an innovative system.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of an automated sheep grazing system for sustainable weed control in vineyards.

Main Methods:

• Development and field-testing of the SheepIT infrastructure for monitoring and controlling grazing animal behavior.
• Evaluation of animal well-being, impact on vineyard crops, and technical system performance, including autonomy.

Main Results:

• The SheepIT system successfully automated the management of grazing sheep, fulfilling core project objectives.
• Field tests demonstrated the system's effectiveness in controlling weeds without damaging vines or grapes.
• Data collected in real-time facilitated improved process efficiency and management of abnormal situations.

Conclusions:

• The SheepIT project proves that automated sheep grazing is a feasible and sustainable solution for vineyard weed control.
• This technology offers an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional methods, reducing chemical pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
• The system is suitable for industrial-scale application in vineyards, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.