How Technology is Changing Agriculture
The advancement in technology has changed how people and businesses operate across the globe. Most industries are leveraging this advancement to solve problems in their sectors. Digital tools assist most companies in making more informed decisions, and the agricultural industry is no exception. With modern technological tools, farmers can utilize exact amounts of farm inputs such as fertilizers and water. (Image Source: Envato)
Agricultural technology in modern society features aspects such as artificial intelligence (AI), GPS sensors, machinery, and advanced software. These advancements impact farmers’ productivity and enhance access to food products at affordable prices.
Here are a few ways technology has changed agriculture.
Mobile Devices
The use of mobile devices in agriculture has been on the rise in the recent past. According to a survey by the American Farm Journal, approximately 59% of the farmers use mobile devices in their farm activities. The number of agricultural-based apps developed has drastically increased. Currently, farmers have access to different mobile apps and tools to gather information on their farms. They can also view weather updates and obtain necessary information regarding the market of their farm produce using mobile apps.
The advancement of technology in the agricultural sector has helped farmers to learn about different farming techniques. For instance, using mobile apps and the internet, farmers can learn how to use greenhouse plastic to improve crop production. Additionally, through mobile apps, farmers can manage their farms remotely, and this has helped them cut labor costs.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
Several years ago, nobody could have imagined that farm tractors can drive themselves on the agricultural fields. However, the introduction of GPS technology has altered the operation of farm machinery. Currently, farm machinery fitted with GPS systems can identify where they are located within the farm. Recognizing their precise position enables the machinery to adjust its functioning to optimize its efficiency in that particular area.
Today, farmers utilize tractors fitted with GPS and automated steering systems to optimize seeds’ placement when planting. Due to their high precision and efficiency in planting, farmers can minimize wastage and costs. Besides, farmers use GPS controlled drones to manage farm activities including spraying of crops, livestock tracking, and mapping.
Use of Sensors
Sensors are important technological tools that help farmers to manage their farms. For instance, they monitor the water content in the soil and humidity levels in the farm produce.
Most farmers are concerned about water wastage and aim to minimize the same. With the sensor technology, farmers can control the precise amount of water required to irrigate crops without wastage. The sensors can automatically initiate or stop the irrigation system depending on the detected water levels in the soil. Eventually, the use of sensors reduces water wastage and costs, thus improving efficiency.
Crop Genetics and Pest Control
The concept of crop genetics is common in the modern environment. For years now, farmers and scientific researchers have applied crop selection and breeding methods to improve crop productivity. Crop genetics experts have attempted to boost germplasm to create better seeds with superior qualities.
Crop genetics experts blend both conventional and contemporary techniques to enhance crop productivity. Modern crop breeding techniques include marker-assisted breeding and genetic engineering. The former method assists in speeding up the period required to have the intended improvement. On the other hand, genetic engineering enhances crops’ resistance to pests and drought. Ultimately, this increases crop productivity and eliminates pest control costs.
Web-Based Marketing Tools
Technology helps farmers to market their farm produce through digital marketing tools and platforms. For instance, farmers can utilize SEO-based websites, social media platforms, and email marketing campaigns to boost their marketing. These tools and platforms enable farmers to get customers for their farm produce even before the harvest period. In the end, digital marketing tools and platforms help farmers to avoid post-harvest related losses. Thus, this maximizes the farmer’s efficiency and profitability.
Conclusion
Technology has dramatically changed how the agricultural sector addresses the ever-evolving challenges in the industry. Experts develop new and advanced techniques to address the various issues in agriculture. For instance, mobile devices, GPS, sensors, crop genetics and pest control, and digital marketing tools have revolutionized the industry. Overly, technology has improved the agricultural processes and enhanced productivity leading to food security.
