Everett Griner talks about progress on all levels of ag technology is vital in today’s Agri View.
More Ag Technology
Just mention the word technology in agriculture and you think of machines and equipment. But, you know, farm technology is far more than tractors, harvesters and drones. Think for a moment where we would be without technology in seed production. And, don’t forget pest control and fertilizer composition. With all of his mechanical advantages, a farmer cannot produce a harvestable crop today if he had to use the seed, fertilizer and pests control methods of twenty years ago. And, right now, for every scientists working on the next generation of mechanical technology there is one in the laboratory working to develop the next generation of plants, seed and chemical elements that will keep the volume of crops and livestock on the rise. Without that laboratory progress half of the world would be underfed within the next twenty years.
That’s Agri View for today. I’m Everett Griner.
From: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Agriculture Technology
Modern farms and agricultural operations work far differently than those a few decades ago, primarily because of advancements in technology, including sensors, devices, machines, and information technology. Today’s agriculture routinely uses sophisticated technologies such as robots, temperature and moisture sensors, aerial images, and GPS technology. These advanced devices and precision agriculture and robotic systems allow businesses to be more profitable, efficient, safer, and more environmentally friendly.
Importance of Agriculture Technology
Farmers no longer have to apply water, fertilizers, and pesticides uniformly across entire fields. Instead, they can use the minimum quantities required and target very specific areas, or even treat individual plants differently. Benefits include:
- Higher crop productivity
- Decreased use of water, fertilizer, and pesticides, which in turn keeps food prices down
- Reduced impact on natural ecosystems
- Less runoff of chemicals into rivers and groundwater
- Increased worker safety
n addition, robotic technologies enable more reliable monitoring and management of natural resources, such as air and water quality. It also gives producers greater control over plant and animal production, processing, distribution, and storage, which results in:
- Greater efficiencies and lower prices
- Safer growing conditions and safer foods
- Reduced environmental and ecological impact
Read more about the advances in agriculture here.