True to Colorado State University’s land grant mission, CSU researchers are focused on finding solutions to issues critical to Coloradans. Across Colorado and the great plains, wheat farmers experience up to 18 percent yield loss due to viral diseases. Dr. Phuong Dao, assistant professor in agricultural biology at CSU, aims to provide precise and real-time detection of diseases to reduce losses. Dao and his lab group use drone hyperspectral sensors to analyze and visualize crop health and growth. The group is developing multimodal machine learning methods with an enhanced spectral database. This enables a disease detection program that will advance current solutions on the market.
“The database will help reduce the time and effort of field sampling for reference disease information which eventually reduces the cost to farmers,” said Dao.
The group has worked to gather spectral data of various diseases from leaf to field and airborne scales. With data from across the state, Dao will develop a robust model and program for disease detection and management at commercial scales. Along with reducing disease and yield loss, the technology has potential to create new roles within the farming industry.
“When companies apply this technology in their crop protection program, we expect many specialist and technician positions will be created to operate the technology,” said Dao. “Examples of these jobs include drone pilots, computer scientists, data scientists, data analysts, agricultural specialists, etc.”
Dao’s approach highlights the importance of integrating technology with agricultural practices to create solutions for Colorado farmers.
In 2023, Dao was awarded a grant from the Advanced Industries Proof of Concept Grant Program to further his work. The program funds projects that align with industry needs and create economic impact. Funding for the program is allocated to CSU through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, with CSU STRATA managing the grant process. Dao advises interested applicants to explore the industry needs and priorities prior to pitching concepts.
“Before applying, thoroughly research the industry partners and stakeholders to understand their priorities, challenges, and how your research aligns with their objectives,” Dao said.
Individuals interested in applying for Advanced Industries funding can learn more about the grant program at csustrata.org/technology-transfer/ai-poc-grant.