Managing thousands of data points, understanding imagery and remote sensing with unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and developing a plan for precision application of pesticides are just a few of the challenges facing today’s agricultural producers.

“I believe Extension agents can help producers better manage this technological change,” says Jacob Maurer, former Extension agent in Cass County. “Because Extension provides unbiased, research-based education, we have the unique opportunity to become a trusted source for precision agriculture information.

“During my time in Cass County, I tried to incorporate agriculture technology information into every workshop, training and one-on-one conversation I had,” he adds.

Maurer also worked with the NDSU Precision Agriculture team to conduct a statewide survey asking producers what type of precision agriculture tools and resources they find most beneficial to their operations. 

Extension agents Alyssa Scheve from Traill County and Angie Johnson from Steele County also know firsthand the importance of understanding precision agriculture technology and being able to talk to local producers about its adoption.

In 2016, when a large-scale UAS research project was conducted over producers’ farms in Traill and Steele counties, Scheve and Johnson helped producers understand the value of the project.

“How we integrate technology into the operation and enhance our agronomic and economic farm management decisions using digital data will define the future of agriculture,” Maurer says.

Johnson agrees, “Right now, as Extension agents, we are turning our focus to how to use the imagery to help producers make management decisions in their fields and/or livestock operations to ultimately save them time and money.”

For more information:

Angie Johnson, 701-524-2253, angela.b.johnson@ndsu.edu