The La Serena University project has reduced water losses during crop irrigation by 54.4 percent. The innovative technology has been specially developed for small and medium-sized producers in the Coquimbo region. The main goal of the initiative was to help local farmers overcome the serious effects of climate change. The system called "Smart Agriculture for Productivity Improvement" actively uses intelligent sensors and artificial intelligence. The developed complex continuously measures soil moisture and automatically starts irrigation only when plants really need water. This approach can significantly reduce the irrational use of a valuable natural resource. At the same time, all necessary equipment remains affordable for small farms.

The technical basis of the project is based on the use of compact microcontrollers with their own processors and memory. These small control boards work in conjunction with artificial intelligence algorithms to accurately analyze soil conditions. Project manager Umberto Farias emphasizes the desire to create an inexpensive technological alternative. It helps producers successfully cope with prolonged droughts through irrigation automation. The Governor of the Coquimbo region, Cristobal Julia, noted the high effectiveness of this approach to managing water resources. Such decisions are becoming critically important for the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in a changing climate. Automation allows farmers to focus on other important aspects of production.

Additionally, the initiative includes the active implementation of these developments in specialized educational institutions. Technological complexes are being installed in agricultural schools to introduce students from rural areas to modern innovations. Cecilia Diaz, Director of the Elki Valley School, emphasized the special value of practical training. Students can independently disassemble and assemble complex systems right in the classroom. This allows young professionals to enter the labor market with an already established set of in-demand skills. The University of La Serena expects to further expand the use of the technology among manufacturers. Scaling up the project will contribute to more rational management of water resources throughout the region.