A February 20 episode of a farm-focused show centered on agricultural automation, the return on investment growers expect, and questions about whether California is positioned to support innovation. The discussion followed recent storms, but attention quickly shifted to technology highlighted at the 2026 World Ag Expo.

Carbon Robotics CEO Paul Mikesell described building an early version of the company’s laser weeding system in his backyard after years working with artificial intelligence in Silicon Valley. He said the aim was to apply AI to practical farm challenges, including herbicide resistance, rising labor costs, and environmental concerns.

The company’s LaserWeeder uses AI-driven cameras and precision lasers to identify and remove weeds without chemicals. Mikesell said some growers are reporting up to 80% savings on weed control, along with improvements in crop health and market timing. He emphasized that adoption hinges on payback, noting many farmers want automation to pencil out in one to three years.

Carbon Robotics also introduced its Autonomous Tractor Kit (Carbon ATK), designed to retrofit existing tractors for self-driving operation. The system includes remote oversight so an operator can take control when needed, with the goal of keeping equipment working through a full day. The conversation also raised regulatory uncertainty in California, where autonomous tractors face unclear labor and safety rules even as self-driving vehicles operate on public streets in San Francisco.

Why it matters

• Growers are weighing automation based on fast, measurable payback as labor costs rise and margins stay tight.
• Tools like laser weeding are being positioned as a way to reduce chemical use while addressing herbicide resistance.
• Regulatory clarity in California could influence how quickly autonomous equipment is adopted in agriculture.

What to do next

• If you’re considering automation, compare expected savings and labor impacts against a one-to-three-year ROI target.
• Track California policy and workplace safety guidance as it relates to autonomous tractors and remote operation.

Source

Original reporting by agnetwest.com: https://agnetwest.com/carbon-robotics-brings-laser-weeding-and-autonomous-tractors-to-center-stage/