For farmers in Myanmar, so much of their work is done by feel, not by fact. Working with Proximity Designs and local farmers, we’ve developed basic sensor prototypes that we’re currently testing with farmers in the dry zone. 

Our hypothesis is that simple sensors can accurately tell farmers precisely when to irrigate or how saturated their soil is. By giving farmers access to accurate data, and delivering it in a way that meets their needs, we think that a few well placed sensors will increase crop yields, and ultimately, improve financial well-being. In the short term, farmers will be able to make real-time decisions regarding crop irrigation, such as more accurately watering their crops, thereby saving on the scarce resource. Long-term, we know the data these sensors collect can help inform new crop insurance products and loan options to help farmers better plan for, and invest in, their future.  

We’re currently awaiting feedback from farmers, and hope to work with Proximity to continue data collection. Once we understand farmer feedback, Proximity will make our prototypes a reality.