Growers in the top corn, soybean and wheat producing states are almost twice as likely to use precision technology than growers in other states, according to the most recent USDA Technology Use report released on Thursday.
For decades, farmers equated machine control with having two hands on the steering wheel, navigating their field on instinct and tradition. The onset of GPS guidance and auto-steering more than 20 years ago created profitable efficiencies, which served as the cornerstone of precision farming hardware innovation.
Strip-till and precision farming technology intersect on many strip-tillers’ operations to improve efficiency and productivity. While auto-steer and GPS guidance are almost considered standard on many farms, there is increasing investment in RTK-level GPS correction systems.
Jerl Joseph of Joseph Farms in Hampton, Neb., says on his irrigated and dryland crops, GPS-driven precision farming tools have helped him identify problem spots in fields. It helps him adjust seeding and fertility rates, and while it hasn't been a seamless journey, Joseph says it makes him a better farm manager.
The new system is designed to combine the benefits of a center pivot with those of a lateral move irrigation system so growers can make better use of their irrigation system and land coverage.
Today, many farmers are introduced to precision agriculture through their equipment dealer. When someone purchases a Case IH tractor, it comes with a Trimble GPS system. If they buy a John Deere tractor, it comes with a Deere system. Regardless, farmers are told that each requires a separate network to access the necessary RTK corrections.
"Farmers are mechanically inclined and want to understand the 'how' and the 'why,'" says Haley Harms, founder of independent precision farming company Pro Till. "My goal is to teach the farmer, on his or her own system, to the point that they can troubleshoot in the field, and operate at maximum efficiency, without relying on tech-support for basic issues."
Fermanagh agricultural students are now in the forefront of the latest technology in precision farming as it is now being used in everyday activities on certain commercial farms.
We had a front-row seat to the launch of AEF’s Agricultural Interoperability Network (AgIN) at AGRITECHNICA a few weeks ago, which promises to ease the process of data sharing for farmers and dealers.
DigiFarm VBN is a proven leader in providing RTK Correction Services across the Midwest and beyond, via cellular based RTK network. We have been in business since 2011 working with farmers, Ag retailers, and precision Ag dealers
We leverage our years of experience and industry knowledge to deliver solutions that keep you moving forward. For more than 30 years, our team of entrepreneurs and technicians have focused on understanding the hurdles you face. Then we brainstorm possibilities. Whether it’s offering a replacement part, repairing parts that aren’t working or creating custom solutions for your challenge. We’re experts in ag equipment electronic parts and systems. But more importantly, we make connections to keep your operation moving forward.
Hexagon is the global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, quality and safety across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, public sector, and mobility applications.