New Technologies: Not Just for Large Farms Anymore

New Technologies: Not Just for Large Farms Anymore

Up to now, precision farming technology has been perceived as worthwhile for large farming operations only. But operators of smaller farms take note: This may no longer be the case.

Recent research on precision farming has shown the technology aids in the overall management of both large and small farms, says Rod Grusy, University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service agent for agriculture and natural resources in Hardin County, Ky.

?Livestock farmers may be turning to precision agriculture to aid them in meeting environmental requirements,? Grusy notes. ?Farmers are being held accountable for ensuring that land application of manure does not contaminate underground and surface water.?

Precision agriculture technology can be used to maintain precise records showing when, where and how much manure was applied.

The University of Kentucky is working alongside industry and farmers to determine which precision technologies have the greatest potential for increasing farm profits. The university also has launched a research effort directed toward determining both the complexity and cost of precision farming technology can be reduced for both small and large farms.

Farmers who have invested in precision agriculture don?t regret their decision, reports Grusy. Seventy-four percent of those surveyed by the university have a positive attitude about future benefits of the technology.

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