Improving Vegetable Production in North Aceh Regency: An Implementation of a Smart Farming Monitoring System

Abstract

This research aims to design and implement a smart farming monitoring system that is appropriate for the local conditions of North Aceh to optimize the production of leading vegetables and facilitate sustainable agricultural transformation. In line with the national agenda toward the digitalization of the agricultural sector, this research is part of a concrete effort to encourage the adoption of smart farming technology at the local level. North Aceh Regency has great horticultural potential, but it is not yet optimal due to the minimal application of technology. This research supports the development of agriculture based on local potential. The study also promotes a participatory and educative approach to increase farmers' digital literacy and reduce the technology gap between conventional and modern technology-adopting farmers. The Smart Farming monitoring system was successfully implemented using soil moisture, air temperature, soil pH, and light intensity sensors integrated into a web-based dashboard and mobile application. The implementation of this system was able to increase vegetable productivity by 18–22%, especially for mustard greens, chili, and tomatoes, compared to conventional methods. The system also contributed to the efficient use of resources, shown by a 25% savings in irrigation water and a 15% reduction in the use of chemical fertilizers. The farmer response was quite positive, although there are still challenges related to digital literacy among some older farmers. Overall, the implementation of Smart Farming in North Aceh Regency had a real impact on increasing productivity and cost efficiency while supporting sustainable agriculture in line with the SDGs.