A group of Brentsville District High School students

Brentsville District High School students using the sensors

Brentsville District High School students working with the sensors

A Brentsville District High School student working with the sensor

Favorable weather set the stage for a hands-on day of learning and innovation at Brentsville District High School, where students in the Brentsville Turf Toro Grounds Academy installed and tested Spiio soil sensors—cutting-edge devices that measure moisture, salinity, and temperature. The sensors were provided through a generous donation from Syngenta, a leading science-based agricultural company, and are part of a broader initiative as Brentsville District High prepares to open a new Turfgrass Research Center next year.

"Our hope is the sensors will support lab space in the new Turfgrass Research Center, while building a relationship with one of the best companies in the industries," shared Dr. Drew Miller, Brentsville Turf Toro Grounds Academy director.

“Miller has built an amazing program here, and we wanted to help the students get further involved with turf grass technology,” explained Travis Roberson, a field technical manager for Syngenta. 

The Spiio sensors deliver real-time readings on key agronomic metrics, enabling agriculture students to engage with advanced technology in their field. Operated by battery and equipped with SIM cards for cellular data transmission, the sensors are expected to function reliably for three to five years.

“I love how simple and easy it was to install,” said Ava, one of the students working with the sensors.

“It's cool that something that small can show us so much,” said Evan, a Brentsville Turf Toro Grounds Academy student.

The sensors will also go a long way toward supporting sustainability efforts.

“With more data available, less water and chemicals will be used to maintain and make sure we have the best field in the country,” shared Dr. Miller.

“I loved collaborating with Syngenta and installing something that will be used for years to come,” said Sophie, another student in the academy. She aims to make a career in the industry and is excited to be getting hands-on with soil technology.

*Please note: cell phones used in compliance with county policy as an instructor-approved educational aid during a co-curricular activity.*