Using a laser system for non-toxic deterrence of birds and raccoons in an organic berry orchard

View the project final report

Commodities

• Fruits: berries (blueberries)

Practices

• Energy: solar energy
• Pest Management: physical control, prevention
• Production Systems: organic agriculture

In 2021, we installed a solar-powered laser system from the Bird Control Group to deter birds and raccoons from eating our fruit crops. The laser system is non-toxic and does not harm birds or mammals. The pests detect the laser beam as a threat and they are trained to stay out of the orchard. For a number of years, we have used a net system to protect fruit from birds. While generally effective, the netting and posts are getting old and it is labor intensive to install and remove the netting each year. We have also used electric fencing, live traps, and a gun to catch and kill raccoons. The laser system was not effective at deterring raccoons. The laser was much more effective at deterring birds from eating our fruit, but there are improvements that we intend to make in how we use the system in future years to maximize it's efficacy. We hosted a field day on July 10, where we showed the laser unit to field day attendees. We anticipate that the laser unit will contribute to increased fruit harvests and profits for our farm, while serving as a teaching model to help other producers protect their fruit crops.

1. Purchase and install laser bird deterrence system.
2. Program system so that it protects all parts of the field, both day and night.
3. Determine if laser system effectively deters both birds and raccoons.
4. Compare 2021 yields with 2020 yields to assess impact of laser system on fruit yields.
5. Compare 2021 income with 2020 income to assess impact of laser system on farm income.
6. Host at least one field day to demonstrate laser system to other growers.
7. Work with UMN Extension Educator to assess effectiveness of the system.