Improved Data Collection for Citrus Field Trials

Improved Data Collection for Citrus Field Trials

Report Date: 04/23/2020
Project: 19-020   Year: 2020
Category: Other
Author: Mark Ritenour
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

Project summary: The equipment obtained through this grant is anticipated to have the capacity to separate harvested fruit into HLB-symptomatic and non-symptomatic categories, along with data on fruit color, size and weigh distribution, fruit density, internal Brix, and other quality data specifically related to healthy fruit. Historically, most trials report total yield from research plots and lack the ability to segregate healthy fruit from HLB symptomatic fruit. Knowing how treatments impacts fruit quality, especially marketable fruit, is important as growers must improve fruit quality to enhance revenue. CRDF funded acquisition of the optical sorting/grading equipment. The ultimate goal is to support CRDF researchers by mounting the equipment to a mobile platform (with support team) for in-field determination of “healthy” vs HLB-affected fruit. Accomplishments: The Compac sorting equipment for the optical sizing/grading unit was ordered and had the latest software, computers, and electronic communication equipment installed by the manufacturer before shipment. The equipment was delivered to the Indian River Research and Education Center the first week of March. A three-phase, 480-volt generator was purchased by the research center that is dedicated to power the main motors of the unit. A Compaq technician set the machine up on March 19, 20, & 24th and it is now operational. Compaq will provide approximately 5 days of advanced training on the machine and software operation/adjustments when travel is possible after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. The software adjustments are vital to determine and establish the parameters that will be used to separate health vs. HLB-affected fruit. CRDF funding was for the purchase of the grading equipment and the PI has prepared a separate grant proposal for additional funding for a trailer, modifications and mounting of the equipment to the trailer, to lease a truck, and to hire a team to transport and operate the equipment at field locations and to work with individual researchers in evaluating their specific treatments and fruit quality factors. Currently, CRDF has forward this supplemental proposal to another agency for funding consideration.  


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