Measuring what can’t be seen
Founded in 2020, TerraRad develops passive microwave technology for high-resolution moisture mapping. It provides detailed insights into subsurface soil water content to conserve natural resources and optimise environmental conditions.
-
turfRad
In the field of turf management, the product it developed is known as turfRad, a specialised soil-moisture sensing and mapping system. A sensor takes thousands of soil moisture readings during normal mowing operations and these raw findings are turned into actionable, high-resolution maps to make data-driven decisions that promote sustainability and efficiency.
We measure what can’t be seen – moisture moving beneath the surface – and turn it into something anyone can understand at a glance.
-
The technology
turfRad uses advanced passive L-band microwave radiometry to bring satellite-grade sensing technology into everyday use on the ground.
-
How it works
Mounted on mowers or utility vehicles, the radiometer sensor collects soil moisture readings 14 times per second at a depth of 10cm (4 inches).
-
The benefits
Moisture content is monitored right in the root zone passively throughout mowing, requiring no additional labour and no digging or disturbing the grass.
-
The results
The data is used to help reduce water use, improve turf health, and optimise irrigation efficiency.
This product connects the machinery with the irrigation for a fully cohesive approach to turf management. Affixing to any Toro mower or UTV, the findings shape a streamlined, more effective irrigation strategy to utilise all the good things Toro irrigation technology is known for – precision, ease of use and targeted watering.
