Dr. Travis Esau will be presenting a special research seminar on Wednesday, April 17, at 12 noon to 1:00 PM in SDE 205. Dr. Esau has applied for an adjunct faculty appointment in the Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering. All are welcomed to attend! Title: Mechanized Systems to Increase Farm Profitability, Create Food Security and Improve Environmental Sustainability Speaker: Dr. Travis Esau, Assistant Professor, Mechanized Systems, Department of Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University Abstract: Traditional agricultural farming is not sustainable and requires new engineering advancements to remain competitive in both local and global markets. Advanced mechanized systems are required to increase farm efficiency and use environmental resources more effectively. Mechanical harvesting remains the most cost-effective means for picking wild blueberries yet is heavily reliant on operator skill and full automation relies on precise and accurate mechanized systems to remain competitive moving forward. Research is underway to develop an advanced harvest management strategy, improve blueberry fruit quality, increase berry picking efficiency and automate the mechanized harvester using advanced sensors and control systems.