Picketa Systems, a Springboard-supported partner, was recognized for its proprietary LENS technology which delivers real-time, data-driven analysis of plant and soil health. This enables growers to optimize resource use, increase crop yields, and reduce environmental impact.
Picketa’s LENS solution revolutionizes nutrient management by providing crucial information on crop health in just minutes. This emerging technology helps farmers monitor nutrient management and plant health of their crops to optimize harvests.
Picketa supported by Springboard
Picketa Systems has been working in collaboration with Springboard member Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB)INNOV’s Bioeconomy Division since the beginning of the project. INNOV’s job is to take samples in the field and carry out laboratory analyses that provide support for the company in improving the data supplied to the algorithms underlying the LENS solution.
The Next-Gen Nitrogen Challenge is a chance for us to showcase how the LENS can improve outcomes by changing how fertility decisions are made in agriculture. With real-time nutrient data, we can help improve nitrogen use efficiency, reduce input costs, and support strong yields with some of the most forward-thinking farmers in Ontario. We’re excited to show how 4R nutrient management can practically be implemented on your farm through case studies, while also testing new precision application tools and methods.
– Xavier Hébert-Couturier CEO, Picketa Systems
Technology to be piloted on Ontario farms
Picketa Systems, will partner with the OSN to pilot their technology at Ontario farms, allowing the company to refine and validate their solution in diverse agricultural environments. This will support Canada’s journey toward a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable food future.
Agriculture accounts for approximately 10% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, with nitrous oxide, primarily from fertilizer use and soil management, a key concern. Accelerating the adoption of technologies that improve nutrient management, enhance carbon sequestration, and enable precision soil and plant monitoring is essential to reducing GHG emissions, strengthening food security, and positioning Canada as a leader in sustainable agriculture.
Picketa’s LENS technology retrieving data
Addressing the Adoption Gap
Recognizing the need to bridge innovators with industry leaders, Foresight introduced the Innovation Challenge program. To date, Foresight has conducted over 65 challenges, establishing itself as the only North American accelerator linking cleantech ventures with end users. These targeted challenges aim to connect national and international buyers with innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, profitability, and environmental sustainability, thereby addressing the adoption gap for innovators.
The Next-Gen Nitrogen Challenge seeks innovative solutions to optimize nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in Ontario farming operations. By focusing on applying the right rate of nitrogen at the right time and leveraging organic nitrogen pools, the goal is to reduce potential nitrogen loss, enhance soil health, and increase on-farm profitability.
Congratulations to Picketa Systems on their well-deserved win! Canada is a leader in innovation for agriculture, and this Challenge demonstrates the incredible potential we have to further enhance productivity and sustainability through groundbreaking technology. We are thrilled to see how Picketa Systems’ will continue to tackle the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges.
Jeanette Jackson CEO, Foresight Canada
Through the Farmer Innovation and Research Ecosystem (FIRE) the Ontario Soil Network works to bring innovative solutions that contribute to the economic and environmental sustainability of farms. The NextGen Nitrogen Challenge aimed to increase data driven management decisions to improve the use of nitrogen, therefore improving productivity and environmental outcomes. We are looking forward to partnering with Picketa to continue to improve the way nitrogen is managed on farms in Ontario through improved decision-making with real time data.
– Lorraine Vandermyden, Ontario Soils Network
About Picketa Systems
Picketa Systems offers real-time plant tissue sampling for growers and agri-businesses to conduct nutrient analyses rapidly and independently. Their online platform informs farmers instantly of nutrient deficiencies, enables agronomists to tailor nutrient critical levels and delivers a comprehensive overview of crop needs at the glimpse of a dashboard. Picketa is on a mission to integrate real-time plant tissue analysis into the agricultural workflow, enabling responsible and optimal resource management for growers, food processors, and fertilizer companies
About Ontario Soil Network (OSN)
The OSN is a farmer-led network where farmers work together to adopt and promote practical, proven approaches to improving soil health. Through the strength of the network, we share knowledge, strengthen communities, and support each other to improve soil health and ensure a strong future for our farms and families.
About Foresight Canada
Foresight Canada helps the world do more with less, sustainably. As Canada’s largest cleantech innovation and adoption accelerator, they connect public and private sectors to the world’s best clean technologies, de-risking and simplifying the adoption of innovative solutions that improve productivity, profitability, and economic competitiveness, all while addressing today’s most urgent climate challenges.
