How TRIC Robotics Is Slashing Pesticide Use in Strawberries with UV Light

TRIC Robotics, based in San Luis Obispo, has developed autonomous, tractor-sized robots that use UV-C light to combat pests and diseases on strawberry crops—without relying on chemical pesticides. Operating at night, these robots can treat up to 100 acres per evening. They’re also equipped with vacuum systems to remove insects without harming the fruit.

Instead of selling the machines, TRIC offers them as a service—mirroring how farmers typically work with pest control providers. CEO and co-founder Adam Stager explained that this approach aligns more naturally with farmers’ existing workflows and gained traction far more quickly than direct sales.

Interestingly, TRIC Robotics didn’t start in agriculture. The company began in 2017 developing 3D-printed robots for SWAT teams. By 2020, Stager had pivoted toward agriculture, driven by a desire to make greater social impact. With backing from the USDA and early-stage funding, he and his team built prototypes and personally demoed them to farmers across California and Delaware.

Today, TRIC operates nine robots and collaborates with four major strawberry growers, with plans to scale further. The company recently secured $5.5 million in seed funding, led by Version One Ventures, to expand their fleet and explore new crops.

The UV-C light they use damages the DNA of pathogens and pests without harming the plants themselves. Because the treatment happens at night—when plants are less sensitive and pollinators aren’t active—it offers a safe, eco-friendly alternative to pesticides. UV-C technology is already used in food sterilization and hospitals, but TRIC is among the first to apply it at this scale in the field.

By combining robotics with precision lighting, TRIC Robotics is helping the agriculture industry transition toward more sustainable, chemical-free farming.