Precision Grade Control Made Simple and Affordable

Take control of your surface drainage and land leveling projects. Ditch Assist™ delivers reliable and accurate RTK GPS machine automation—simple to install, easy to use, and built to perform on your existing equipment.

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Introducing Ditch Assist™

Ditch Assist™ is a powerful yet user-friendly RTK GPS grade control system engineered by Northern Plains Drainage Systems. Designed specifically for precision surface drainage, and land leveling, Ditch Assist simplifies and automates the hydraulic control of scrapers, ditchers, blades, tile plows, excavators, and more. Easy to set up and intuitive to operate, Ditch Assist delivers unmatched accuracy and versatility, enabling you to complete projects faster, increase efficiency, and achieve consistent, professional-grade results.

Ditch Assist Features

✅ Flexible Hydraulic Valve Setup

Ditch Assist utilizes our proven hydraulic valve (or integrates directly with factory-installed valves on compatible machines), providing unmatched flexibility. This means you can use any tractor—regardless of age or brand—without needing expensive CAN or ISOBUS platform kits. The valve easily transfers between tractors or implements, reducing setup time and making it practical to switch equipment frequently.

✅ Android-Based User Interface

The Ditch Assist app runs on affordable, widely available Android tablets (e.g., Samsung Galaxy tablets), eliminating the need for costly proprietary displays or Windows-based tablets. You can download the latest app directly from our site (visit our App Downloads page), and we even provide optional early access to beta and alpha releases—perfect for those who want the latest features first. Tablets preconfigured with the app are also available directly from us—just ask!

✅ Industry-Leading Wireless Connectivity

Say goodbye to messy cab wiring and complicated setups. Ditch Assist’s control module generates its own reliable Wi-Fi hotspot (no internet required), enabling wireless data transfer between the module and your tablet. The result is a streamlined installation, quick transfer between equipment, and effortless operation. This wireless convenience significantly reduces downtime and frustration, and it’s a unique feature unmatched by other grade-control systems on the market today.

✅ Advanced Functionality and Customization

Ditch Assist sets itself apart with advanced tools like Slope-IQ™, our automated best-fit drainage design feature, plus unmatched capabilities for fully customized grade designs. Easily import land-leveling plans from third-party software and utilize Auto Nudge to precisely control maximum cutting depths per pass. Additionally, our on-screen mapping enables loading of custom map layers, while users in supported regions can leverage our free Ideal Drainage Mapping (IDM) feature directly within the app. No other system offers this powerful combination of advanced yet intuitive functionality.

✅ Universal GPS Compatibility

Ditch Assist was engineered to integrate with RTK GPS systems from any manufacturer, including John Deere®, Trimble®, Case-IH®, Outback®, Ag leader®, and more, allowing you the freedom to choose or keep your existing hardware. If you don’t already have RTK GPS or prefer not to invest in expensive RTK unlocks and hardware, we offer the affordable and highly reliable Emlid Reach RS3. This cost-effective alternative delivers precision accuracy at a fraction of the price of traditional agricultural RTK systems—making advanced RTK GPS grade control accessible to everyone.

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Any Tractor

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Any Age

Any Make or Model

No need for CAN or ISO

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Any Implement

Scrapers

Ditchers

Blades and Levelers

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Any GPS

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Use existing RTK

Purchase a low cost RTK

Any brand works

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Any Project

Create Surface Drains

Land Leveling

Install Tile Drainage

Typical Ditch Assist Workflow

With Ditch Assist, setting up precision drainage is simple and intuitive. Begin by surveying your planned drainage route—just drive the path, and the Ditch Assist App logs accurate RTK elevations in real time. Next, use the built-in Slope-IQ™ feature to automatically calculate the optimal best-fit grade, or customize the design if you’d prefer to fill low areas rather than excavating deeper. When you’re ready, simply hit START and let Ditch Assist automatically adjust your implement hydraulics, precisely controlling blade elevation to maintain perfect grade throughout the job.

Survey

Drive the proposed route with your tractor and implement to survey the existing terrain profile using RTK GPS

Design

Use Slope-IQ to design a best-fit solution that maximizes efficiency and maintains your minimum grade

Start Work

Implement your best-fit design automatically using Ditch Assist to control the implement hydraulics

 NEW: Slope-IQ Design Customizer

Unmatched Drainage Design Control – Your Way. We listened. Now, Slope-IQ offers full customization abilities for surface drainage ditches and subsurface tile runs. Alter ditch profiles, fill low areas, adjust slopes, change outlet elevations, and more as needed. This industry-first feature gives you complete control over your projects and, like all Ditch Assist updates, comes at no additional cost to our existing users.

 

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Ditch Assist Equipment Compatibility

Grade Control for Pull Type Scrapers

Ditch Assist delivers precise RTK GPS grade control for any hydraulically operated pull-type scraper using our Full Automation Kit which includes hydraulic valve and all required hoses and fittings. The Automation Kit also features a hydraulic bypass circuit allowing you manually operate the scraper raise and lower hydraulics at any time.

Ditch Assist makes it easy to achieve accurate surface drainage and land-leveling results. Our standard hydraulic valve provides reliable and precise blade control for typical scrapers used in Western Canada and the Northern U.S., with easily adjustable hydraulic responsiveness via min/max Duty Cycle (DC) settings in the Ditch Assist app. Turn up DC for larger scrapers, or lower it slightly for smaller units. Optional high-flow valve spool upgrades are available for extra-large scrapers—contact us at 1-877-354-2899 to discuss your specific needs.

Because the Ditch Assist valve is portable and typically mounted on the implement (or tractor), it’s easy to switch between tractors or implements throughout the day. Simply weld additional mounts on other equipment or mount the valve on the tractor if frequently switching implements. Wireless communication from valve to cab means minimal wiring, allowing you to change tractors and be back grading in under an hour.

Advanced features like Slope-IQ help you achieve optimal best-fit drainage designs, while our Auto Nudge function allows precise control of maximum cut depth per pass—eliminating excessive cuts that can stall your tractor. Just increment the pass number after each run to gradually achieve the desired final grade.

Ditch Assist works seamlessly with any RTK GPS system. If you need an affordable RTK solution, ask us about the reliable Emlid Reach RS3.

Grade Control for Rotary Ditchers

Ditch Assist delivers precision RTK GPS grade control for rotary ditchers including popular brands like T-REX Ditcher™, Wolverine Ditcher™, and Revolution Ditcher™. Our standard Full Automation Kit includes a hydraulic valve, hoses, fittings, and a convenient hydraulic bypass for manual control at any time, ensuring precise and reliable grade adjustments.

If you own a Revolution Ditcher™, Ditch Assist seamlessly integrates with its factory-installed PWM hydraulic valve. This means you only need our affordable Guidance Only Kit, providing a simple plug-and-play connection without purchasing additional valves or hydraulic components. Owners of other ditcher models with existing valves should contact us to confirm compatibility; however, the full Automation Kit is typically required.

Wireless connectivity reduces cab wiring, and the easily adjustable min/max Duty Cycle (DC) settings in the Ditch Assist app offer optimized hydraulic responsiveness for different ditcher models and sizes. The portable valve allows quick switching between tractors or implements, getting you back to ditching in under an hour.

Advanced features like Slope-IQ provide best-fit ditch designs, while Auto Nudge controls maximum cut depth per pass, preventing excessive depth that could stall your tractor. Simply increment pass numbers after each run to gradually achieve your desired grade.

Compatible with any RTK GPS system, Ditch Assist also pairs perfectly with affordable, reliable RTK receivers like the Emlid Reach RS3. Call us at 1-877-354-2899 for details or compatibility questions.

Grade Control for Blades and Land Levelers

Ditch Assist provides reliable RTK GPS grade control for a wide range of blades and land-leveling equipment, including popular implements like the Pulldozer™. Our Full Automation Kit enables accurate, automated hydraulic control of the blade height, delivering precise field leveling and consistent drainage results.

Ditch Assist focuses exclusively on automating the raise/lower hydraulics for precise grade adjustments. Additional blade functions, such as tilt or side-wing adjustments, remain manually operated by the user. For tilt-capable blades, Ditch Assist will work correctly provided you keep the tilt angle constant from the initial survey through to grading. Changing the tilt angle mid-operation alters the GPS height offset, causing deviation from your intended grade.

One major advantage of Ditch Assist for land leveling is the ability to import custom-designed leveling maps created with third-party software such as OptiSurface™, AgForm 3d™, and Ezigrade™. These designs, exported as simple text files with target elevations, are easily loaded into the Ditch Assist app. Ditch Assist then automatically adjusts blade height in real-time to achieve the exact design elevations. Additionally, our Auto Nudge feature works seamlessly with these imported designs, incrementally lowering your blade each pass based on original survey data included in your leveling file.

As with all Ditch Assist applications, our wireless valve setup allows you to rapidly switch tractors or implements, ensuring minimal downtime between tasks. Compatible with any RTK GPS system, Ditch Assist also pairs perfectly with cost-effective RTK solutions like the Emlid Reach RS3.

For specific compatibility questions or detailed information on importing custom designs, please call us at 1-877-354-2899.

Grade Control for Tile Drainage Plows

Ditch Assist delivers accurate, RTK-based hydraulic control for tile drainage plows, providing all the functionality you’d expect from traditional laser control systems—plus significant advantages. Features like our exclusive Slope-IQ™ technology provide automatic best-fit grade calculations, and the system allows custom designs specifically tailored to tile drainage applications, ensuring efficient and precise installation.

Unlike dedicated tile-plow controllers, Ditch Assist does not include a pitch sensor and will not automatically compensate for changes in plow pitch. For optimal performance, tile installation runs should always progress uphill, and operators should monitor pitch using built-in visual gauges (such as water-level indicators found on many plows). If the plow hits a rock and deflects upward, causing it to pitch downward as it attempts to return to the design grade, operators will need to manually nudge the plow upward or restart the run from the point of impact.

Ditch Assist integrates seamlessly with factory-installed hydraulic valves on the Soil-Max™ Stealth ZD plow, providing a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution. It also pairs perfectly with dual-linkage plows like the O’Connell™ Drainage Plow, which maintain consistent positive pitch without the need for automatic pitch adjustment.

Combine the convenience of RTK GPS with powerful software features to streamline your tile drainage installations. Ditch Assist is fully compatible with any RTK GPS system, including the affordable and reliable Emlid Reach RS3. Contact us at 1-877-354-2899 for specific compatibility or additional details.

Maximize Equipment, Minimize Costs, Master Projects

Ditch Assist Automation Kit

Ditch Assist simplifies grade control by replacing complex setups with versatile, easy-to-use automation. Quickly install on any tractor or implement, switching between equipment in minutes—not hours. Our precision valve ensures seamless compatibility, helping you save money and improve efficiency on every project.

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Your Complete Drainage & Landforming Solution

Stay on Grade with Ditch Assist and Ditch Assist X

Master surface drainage, precision grading, land leveling, and complex 3D earthmoving projects with Ditch Assist. Achieve unmatched versatility and functionality across your machinery. Expand your system’s capabilities easily with Ditch Assist X, adding accurate and user-friendly grade guidance for excavators and backhoes.

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Exclusive Elevation and Ideal Drainage Mapping

Ideal Drainage Mapping Available Exclusively to Ditch Assist Owners

Unlock exclusive contour maps via our web portal and easily access Ideal Drainage Mapping (IDM) directly within the Ditch Assist App. IDM automatically downloads to your tablet when online, ensuring maps are available when you’re working offline. Clearly visualize optimal water flow routes and drainage paths right from the cab.

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Load Any Digital Map or Image as Your Guidance Layer

Ideal Drainage Mapping available exclusively to Ditch Assist owners

Turn any drainage map, drone photo, or hand-drawn plan into an accurate guidance layer in minutes. Our free georeferencing tool makes importing and aligning images simple within the Ditch Assist App. No other system provides the ease and flexibility to visualize and follow your custom maps so quickly and accurately.

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Try Ditch Assist Before You Buy with Our Simulator

Experience precision drainage firsthand with our interactive app simulator. Explore key features and intuitive controls without commitment. Gain confidence in the system’s capabilities and easily familiarize yourself with how Ditch Assist improves accuracy and efficiency—ensuring your success from day one.

Ditch Assist Automated Machine Control

Simple Land Leveling with Ditch Assist

Ditch Assist™ is the ultimate land-leveling solution, combining precise designs with flexible, on-the-fly grading capabilities. Quickly achieve flat surfaces for smaller fields, construction sites, or flood irrigation projects by simply setting the gradient to zero or choosing your desired elevation.

For projects requiring single or multi-slope planes, survey along the centerline of your grading area and use our powerful Slope-IQ™ tool—just like you would for drainage projects. Ditch Assist automatically expands your surveyed design outward at perfect 90-degree angles, accurately controlling your implement to produce a smooth, precise plane every time.

How to Grade a Flat Area with Ditch Assist:

  1. Lower implement to ground at start location.
  2. Select the GRADING tab in the Ditch Assist App.
  3. Specify either a zero grade or target elevation:
    1. The simplest option is to enter 0 into the Target Grade box.
    2. For engineering projects, use the toggle switch to change to Target Elevation and enter a target elevation value for the finished grade.
  4. Hit START and begin working
  5. To add a depth offset, use NUDGE DOWN.
  6. Anywhere you drive, Ditch Assist will maintain the same target elevation, thus creating a flat level area.

Single or Multi-Slope Plane Grading:

  • Survey a straight centerline path within the grading area.

  • Use Slope-IQ™ (similar to designing drainage routes) to generate a precise slope.

Automatic Planar Expansion:
  • Ditch Assist automatically extends your design outward at 90° from the survey line.

  • Accurately grades the entire area to create a perfect, uniform plane.

ADVANCED EARTHWORKS WITH DITCH ASSIST

Ditch Assist™ delivers professional-grade land leveling performance at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems. Fully compatible with advanced 3D best-fit designs from software such as OptiSurface, TopCon AgForm3D, and Ezigrade, it makes precision land forming straightforward and affordable. Simply import your design into the Ditch Assist App, quickly calibrate using our intuitive tools, and confidently execute even the most complex formations. Backed by our experienced dealer network and powered by industry-leading algorithms, Ditch Assist ensures your project matches design specifications every time.

Precision Shouldn’t Limit You to One Tractor

Ditch Assist delivers precision and unparalleled flexibility. Experience the control of an integrated system on any tractor with our custom-designed proportional valve. Outsmart the competition with a system that moves effortlessly between all your machines.

Ditch Expensive Displays thanks to the Ditch Assist Android App

Ditch Assist simplifies everything. Forget expensive displays, complex software updates, and restrictive systems. Our app runs on a standard Android 10″ tablet, offering intuitive controls and hassle-free updates for unmatched convenience.

Your Vision, Your Drainage: Ditch Assist Customization

Perfect drainage starts with you. Ditch Assist offers unmatched design customization options for ditches, tiles, and planes using our exclusive Slope-IQ technology. Import your own landforming designs for total precision control for land leveling projects.

Ditch Assist Users on Social Media