When painting a picture of agricultural work, we almost always think of people putting in manual labor and using traditional hand tools. However, we’ve come a long way since those days of agricultural work.
At present, while farmers have access to their old tools, they prefer using more technologically advanced equipment for their work. This, in turn, helps farmers increase yields, reduce costs, and, most importantly, improve the overall efficiency of their work.
From drones to GPS-guided tractors, technology is transforming the way that farmers work. Here are a few tips for using technology to your advantage as a farmer:
Invest in Precision Agriculture Technology
Precision agriculture technology uses sensors, GPS, and other advanced tools to gather data about soil conditions, weather patterns, and other factors that can impact crop growth. By using this data, farmers can make more informed decisions about when to plant, when to fertilize, and when to harvest. Precision agriculture technology can also help farmers identify areas of their fields that are underperforming, so they can take steps to address those issues.
One example of precision agriculture technology is variable rate application (VRA). VRA technology uses data to adjust the rate of fertilizer or seed being applied in real-time based on the soil conditions in different parts of the field. Using such technology helps farmers make the most of their resources and reduce waste.
Use Drones for Crop Monitoring
Drones are becoming increasingly popular in agriculture as a tool for crop monitoring. With a drone, farmers can quickly and easily survey their fields to identify areas that need attention. These drones are capable of taking high-res images and data of the farmland. Then, they can be used for creating 3D maps of the fields as well as identifying crop stress and monitoring plant health.
Farmers can also use drones for spraying pesticides and fertilizers more efficiently. As a farmer, you no longer have to spray the entire field. Instead, you can use drones and target certain areas of the field that require treatment. Not only does it reduce the amount of pesticides and fertilizers needed, but it can also minimize the overall impact on the environment.
Electric Weeding
Electric welding uses electricity to kill weeds. This can be done using a variety of methods, including handheld devices, backpack sprayers, and tractor-mounted equipment. When electricity is applied to a weed, it causes the plant cells to rupture, which kills the weed.
Electric weeding has several advantages over chemical herbicides. It is safe for the environment, as it does not leave behind harmful residues or runoff. It is also effective against a wide range of weed species, including those that are resistant to herbicides.
Electric weeding is much more effective and safer compared to chemical weed killers. Remember the Roundup weed killer? It’s been found that the active ingredient used in this chemical weed killer can cause cancer.
This eventually led to the Roundup Lawsuit, which is still ongoing. According to the latest Roundup Lawsuit update, a settlement has been reached, and most of the claims have been paid too. However, funds are still available for future Roundup cancer lawsuits.
TorHoerman Law notes that the settlement is worth $10 billion, and it also includes an additional $1.25 billion for future Roundup claims. Given how big the settlement amount is, it’s easy to understand just how dangerous chemical weed killers can be and how much damage and health problems they can cause.
Use Farm Management Software
Farm management software can help farmers streamline their operations, track inventory, and manage their finances. By using software to manage their farm, farmers can save time and reduce the risk of errors.
The management software can also relay valuable insights to farmers concerning daily operations. Such information can include everything from data on crop yields to daily expenses. This way, farmers can get an overview of the improvements they need to make and manage their operations more efficiently.
Automate Routine Tasks with Smart Devices
Smart devices, such as sensors and cameras, can be used to automate routine tasks on the farm. For example, sensors can be used to monitor soil moisture levels and automatically adjust irrigation systems. Cameras can be used to monitor livestock and alert farmers if there are any issues that need attention.
Through the automation of routine tasks, farmers can free up time to focus on other areas of their operations. This can help improve productivity and reduce stress.
Stay Up-to-Date with New Technologies
Staying updated on the latest farm technologies is vital for you as a farmer. Every day, there are new agricultural tools and technologies coming out. You must stay ahead of the curve and update your technology accordingly.
To do so, you should attend industry conferences as well as trade shows that showcase new farm technology. That way, you’ll get to connect with other farmers and industry professionals. Reading industry publications and following blogs and social media accounts can also help farmers stay informed about the latest developments in agriculture technology.
In the modern age, no sector or industry can prosper without embracing and making the most of technology. The agricultural sector is no different. Thus, as a farmer, the sooner you embrace and learn to make the most of technology to your advantage, the better.