Precision Farming Dealer editors encounter a variety of articles, social media posts, podcasts and videos that offer a unique look at various aspects of our great agricultural industry. Here is our favorite content from the past week:
- Survey: Southern Farms Dial Back Precision Tech Purchases
- Unpacking the Evolving Safety Rules for Autonomy
- What Does AI Think About the Job You Do?
- New Holland Dealer Trained with Muhammad Ali
- Not Something You See Every Day: Tank Pulling a Plow
Survey: Southern Farms Dial Back Precision Tech Purchases
RFD TV covers a new USDA Survey released in August 2025 that shows a sharp increase in online input purchases and a decline in precision purchases in the south. “Precision agriculture adoption moved in the opposite direction,” explains Devon Mills, Assistant Professor with Mississippi State Extension. “Seven southern states, including Tennessee, North Carolina, and Alabama, saw declines in use between 2023 and 2025, mirroring a 19 percent national drop. Analysts suggest producers may be pausing high-cost technologies to reduce expenses, even as internet-based tools become central to daily operations.”
Unpacking the Evolving Safety Rules for Autonomy
Agtonomy CEO Tim Butcher put together this guest piece on Ag Funder Network, covering the legal path to widespread autonomy adoption. “Autonomy’s potential will only be fully realized when innovation and regulation move together,” Butcher says. “That requires trust, transparency, and a willingness to learn on both sides. Together, we can modernize rules so that they reflect the realities of today’s agriculture and the promise of tomorrow’s.”
What Does AI Think About the Job You Do?
We’ve come across articles from other media companies asking AI about various jobs. So, we did it with ChatGPT — “What does a precision farming specialist do?” Let’s see what it said…
“A precision farming specialist is a professional who helps farmers use advanced technology and data-driven strategies to improve agricultural efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Also known as precision ag specialists or precision agriculture consultants, these experts bridge the gap between modern technology and traditional farming practices.
“At the core of their job, a precision farming specialist supports the use of GPS, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, drones, yield monitors, and various on-farm sensors. These technologies allow farmers to monitor and manage their operations at a much more detailed level, often down to the square foot. The goal is to apply the right amount of inputs—such as seed, fertilizer, or pesticide—at the right time and place, rather than treating entire fields the same.
“One of the key responsibilities of a precision farming specialist is data collection and analysis. They gather information from field equipment, satellites, drones, and soil sensors to build a detailed picture of field conditions. This data can include soil composition, moisture levels, crop health, yield variability, and more. Once collected, the specialist uses software tools to analyze the data and generate insights for decision-making.
“Using these insights, the precision farming specialist creates variable rate prescriptions, which guide equipment to apply inputs more accurately and efficiently. For example, areas of a field that are more fertile may receive less fertilizer, while weaker areas receive more, optimizing yield potential and reducing waste.
“A big part of the job is working directly with farmers and equipment operators to train them on precision ag tools. Specialists help with the setup and calibration of precision equipment, such as auto-steer systems, GPS guidance, and field mapping software. They also provide ongoing support to ensure everything works as expected during planting, spraying, and harvesting seasons.
"In addition to on-the-ground support, precision farming specialists often serve as technology advisors. With agricultural technology evolving rapidly, farmers rely on specialists to recommend the right tools and systems for their specific operations. This includes evaluating new hardware and software, staying current on emerging trends, and helping clients adopt innovative solutions that align with their goals.
"Some specialists work for equipment dealerships, agronomy service providers, or ag-tech companies, while others may operate independently as consultants. Regardless of where they work, strong communication skills are essential. They must translate complex data into practical advice that farmers can act on.
"Precision farming specialists also contribute to sustainability efforts. By helping farmers reduce over-application of inputs and better manage natural resources, they play a role in conserving water, minimizing chemical runoff, and lowering carbon emissions. Their work supports the broader goals of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
"In summary, a precision farming specialist helps modernize agriculture by combining data, technology, and agronomic knowledge. From mapping fields and analyzing yield data to advising on new tools and training farm staff, they are essential partners in helping farmers make smarter, more efficient decisions. As agriculture continues to embrace digital innovation, the role of the precision farming specialist will only become more critical."
New Holland Dealer Trained with Muhammad Ali
Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. Before Alex Swiderski was selling farm equipment with New Holland dealer Swiderski Equipment in Wisconsin, he was a professional boxer, who fought with the likes of Muhammad Ali. In 1964 after 20 fights with 14 wins, 3 losses and 3 draws, he decided to to call it quits. WSAW Newschannel 7 has the story!
Not Something You See Every Day: Tank Pulling a Plow
This isn’t exactly precision related, but it’s definitely one of the most interesting things we saw on the web this week, so we had to share it. How about a tank pulling a plow? Check it out!
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