Smart Agriculture IoT Trials
Are you interested in using more technology to support your farm’s day-to-day work?
Farmers across north Wales are being given the chance to trial the latest innovations and technologies in agriculture, with the launch of a new network this summer.
The new Smart Agriculture IoT trials project, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is delivered by Mentera on behalf of Ambition North Wales.
Mentera is now looking for 16 farms across north Wales to join this exciting initiative.
Ready to Innovate Your Farm?
Applications for an expression of interest can be submitted here.
Click hereWho are we looking for?
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking applications from keen, ambitious, and forward-thinking farmers in north Wales who want to develop their businesses and use of technology.
Do you farm in one of these areas: Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Anglesey or Wrexham?
Farms are being recruited from the dairy, red meat, pigs, poultry, arable and horticulture sectors from across these areas.
Why Apply?
Why Apply?
- Join a new exciting network that will fund on-farm trials focusing on smart agriculture technology.
- Farms selected will benefit from significant project support and guidance from a fully-funded Agri-tech specialist.
- All equipment is provided and installed, with the option to continue with use if the trial is beneficial.
- Harness the power of the Internet of Things (IoT) and LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) to improve the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of your farm, helping you reach your business goals.
Success Stories from Previous Trials
Farms that have previously been part of similar networks delivered by Mentera have learned which technologies work well to result in tangible benefits. Examples of previous on-farm trials using LoRaWAN through Farming Connect’s Our Farms Network include:
Optimised Slurry Application
At a demonstration farm near Holyhead, LoRaWAN sensors were used to monitor soil moisture and temperature in real-time. This enabled the farmer to make data-driven decisions on when to apply slurry, reducing the risk of nutrient run-off and pollution while maximising the effectiveness of the application.
Enhanced Water Management
LoRaWAN sensors have been successfully used to provide real-time data on water levels in troughs and tanks. This not only provides farmers with peace of mind, but also helps to identify leaks quickly, saving valuable water and reducing costs.
Livestock and Infrastructure Monitoring
On-farm trials have shown how LoRaWAN can be used to track livestock and monitor farm infrastructure. This technology can be applied to prevent livestock theft, manage grazing patterns, and remotely check the status of gates or machinery, saving time and labour.
Precision Cropping and Soil Health
By deploying LoRaWAN-enabled soil probes, farmers have gained valuable insights into soil health, including moisture levels, pH, and nutrient composition. This data allows for more precise application of water and fertiliser, leading to improved yields, reduced waste, and a healthier soil ecosystem.
Siwan Howaston, Head of Technical at Mentera
“This is a fantastic opportunity for farmers in north Wales to be at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The adoption of technologies like LoRaWAN is crucial for creating more resilient, productive, and sustainable farm businesses. We encourage all interested farmers to apply and help us build a more technologically advanced future for agriculture in north Wales.”
Cllr Nia Jeffreys, Lead Member for Ambition North Wales’s Digital Connectivity Programme and Leader, Cyngor Gwynedd
“The transformative potential of this project is significant for the farmers involved. All equipment is provided and installed, with the option to continue with use if they find the trial to be beneficial – so there could be much to gain.”
Important Dates
- Application Window: Wednesday, 30 July 2025 until midnight Wednesday, 27 August 2025.
- Notification of Application Outcome: During the week commencing 1 September 2025.
- On-farm Trials Run: From September 2025 to 1 February 2026.
Ready to Innovate Your Farm?
Applications for an expression of interest can be submitted here.
Click here
