Submitted by: OSCIA Provincial office

The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) is excited to provide an update on the Mobile Soil Technology Suite (MSTS). Through funding from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), OSCIA has assembled a mobile demonstration suite that consists of two trailers, and a wealth of specialized scientific tools, audio-visual gear, and field ready tools.

OES providing a demonstration of the LED trailer

One trailer will securely house the equipment that will support field demonstration events and applied soil research. This trailer is equipped with power, water, and air. The second trailer is fitted with a 6.5’ high x 10’ wide high-resolution LED screen which will facilitate observation of data from sensors, presentation materials, and video captured live on site. Trained team members will transport the units and accompany the trailers to all events and activities.

This initiative helps implement Ontario’s Soil Strategy. The MSTS gives OSCIA the opportunity to work with key partners to offer on-farm demonstrations of the impact of farm activities and field equipment on soil health and water quality. Additionally, some of the equipment can be used to quantify real time soil compaction risks. We are currently developing the procedures for the use of the equipment through trials. These procedures will ensure that the setup and use of equipment will operate smoothly at association demonstrations and with applied research.

The MSTS is a huge win for our membership, as we can bring these professional, informative, hands-on demonstrations right to you. While the situation created by the pandemic has certainly interfered with the initial plans to roll out the MSTS across the province this year, we are working hard alongside partners to put some alternate plans in place to utilize the units and showcase their capabilities.

When reservations for the MSTS open, priority will be given to local and regional events where OSCIA is involved, including on-farm research sites, and knowledge transfer events. A reservation system for bookings will be set up at OSCIA’s Guelph office where those interested can choose from specialized

packages, each with an associated fee. We are still awaiting the trailer that will securely house the equipment (with an autumn delivery expected). If demonstrations involving the MSTS are possible this summer, they will be organized with small groups in limited locations and involve a thoughtfully selected reduced inventory.

In future years, the availability to reserve the MSTS components will be offered to other agricultural groups and organizations. The equipment will be a focal point of applied research, demonstration, and educational events for at least the next several years.

The generosity of private donors has helped to offset the operational costs that are the responsibility of OSCIA. The fee for the remaining expenses (storage, transport, insurance, maintenance, etc.) will be charged to users on a cost-recovery basis.

We have had such a positive response from folks when they hear about this project, and we are already receiving inquiries about booking the MSTS for demonstrations. If you think that the MSTS would be a great fit for your upcoming event, please email msts@ontariosoilcrop.org. We are compiling a list of those interested and will contact you personally with pricing and booking details as soon as they are finalized.

Any other questions about the MSTS can also be sent to msts@ontariosoilcrop.org.

Thank you to Copernicus Educational Products for their generous donation to support the operation of the MSTS. If you are interested in sponsoring to help subsidize the cost of bringing these incredible demonstrations to farmers across the province, please contact us at msts@ontariosoilcrop.org.