Precision ag, the process of combining data, such as seed attributes, weather patterns and soil condition, to create a ‘prescription’ for the best crop and fertilizing scenario can be complicated, but according to reports, it’s here to stay.
Since it is here to stay, successful farming incorporates the process in day-to-day operations.
Small Steps
Granted, many systems are not easy and intuitive. Don’t discard the process, though, instead tackle one aspect of the system. Schedule time weekly to learn one small piece of the process. This will become your foundation. This knowledge may prove invaluable because as one ag expert notes ‘the easily-ignored tech of today could prove to be the saviors of the industry tomorrow.’
Attend Seminars
With the Web, this often means you don’t need to leave your home. However, physically attending at least one event a year has its benefits. (Make it a working vacation by picking a location the whole family can enjoy.) By attending the seminar, often you can meet one-on-one with industry leaders, ‘pick their brain’ or even offer suggestions to make their systems more user-friendly.
Read your Contract
The world of data ownership is evolving, and although no one wants to wade through legalese, knowing what you are signing will pay off in the end. It may prevent you from giving away your data – information that is growing in value. Before signing any deal, make sure to ask these six questions.
Hire a Consultant
If technology is just not your thing, or if learning it is costing too much time, hire a consultant. This is the approach of one Tennessee farmer who collects the data while the consultant creates the prescription plan for his fields. With colleges getting on board finding a consultant is becoming easier.
Remember, precision agriculture technology is worth learning because it can reduce costs and increase yields. Contact us today to learn more about this and other topics impacting your farm’s profit.
