F3 Innovate announces Frost Prediction Data Challenge for university teams

F3 Innovate, a nonprofit advancing agricultural innovation through applied research and technology development, announced Nov. 10 the launch of the Frost Prediction Data Challenge. This competition invites university teams from various disciplines to develop innovative data analytics models to predict frost events. 

The challenge uses a regional dataset of microclimate weather data from California, with methods that can be applied to other regions. 

Frost is among the most damaging weather risks to California agriculture and the U.S., where economic losses from frost exceed those from all other weather-related phenomena. 

Traditionally, frost protection has relied on manual readings and growers’ local knowledge. Machine learning and spatial modeling offer opportunities for earlier and more reliable frost warnings. 

The challenge gives participants an opportunity to develop models that can predict frost events using real-world datasets and supercomputing resources to develop, train, and test their models. Teams are based on accuracy, creativity, and solution effectiveness. 

“We're excited to host this inaugural data challenge,” said Ryan Dinubilo, F3i director of innovation. "It provides a platform for students to showcase their talents, while fostering collaboration and innovation within the data analytics community.” 

Participation is welcomed from all parts of the academic community, including undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty and staff. Those who would like to join but do not have a team will be assigned to a team. 

The challenge is made possible through the support of the University of California San Diego Supercomputer Center and the National Data Platform.

For more information, contact: 

Ryan Dinubilo 
ryan@f3innovate.org 
F3i.org 

Check out the Data Challenge kickoff webinar below.

Frost Risk Data Challenge kickoff webinar.