Robot set to combat ragwort on Dorset farmland (original) (raw)

The Royal Horticultural Society , externalsays while ragwort is rarely a problem in gardens, its poisonous nature makes it a "serious weed of paddocks and pastures".

It plays an important role in supporting wildlife, including pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Control is therefore targeted, with plants removed in areas where there is a risk to grazing animals.

Raggy has been developed by Cornish firm Robotriks in partnership with Dorset Council and long-time collaborators Telint.

Jake Shaw-Sutton, director of Robotriks, said the Robotic Traction Unit (RTU) was "built for real-life farm conditions".

Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council, said: "We are delighted this autonomous and environmentally sensitive solution is being tested, evaluated and developed on our land here in Dorset."