Farmers view technology, economics, equipment and agronomy as interconnected, not separate topics,” said Jenny Carleo, Carolina State University Extension area specialist. North. “Understanding their perspective helps us build relationships and serve them better.” »
Despite their strong agronomic knowledge, many extension agents struggle to keep up with rapidly changing agricultural technologies.
To address this issue, NC State Extension partnered with Quality Equipment and Farm Credit to host an ag technology training event in Polkton, North Carolina. The one-day session aimed to familiarize officers with current tools and emerging innovations.
Carleo says the event was inspired by a conversation with John Hoffner, a tech-savvy North Carolina farmer she met far from home.
“Last year I met John Hoffner of Talley Farms at the US Soybean Research Collaborative’s national Think Tank event in Indiana. John works closely with John Deere as an on-farm equipment tester and has an insightful perspective on what Extension agents need to know. He was the key to this kickoff.
Training Highlights
Agents explored John Deere’s “Operations Center,” a free platform for farmers to collect, analyze and share agricultural data. The system supports recordkeeping, compliance, planning and agronomic decisions. Agents learned to create their own accounts, giving farmers the ability to share data for on-farm trials and advice.
Sydney Jalali, an Edgecombe County agent, saw the immediate value of the platform.
“This tool allows producers to share agricultural data and research trial data, track results and compare results over multiple years. Creating an account is one of my first steps back home.
Additional sessions focused on data capture mechanisms on planters, sprayers and combines, as well as discussions of autonomous equipment on the horizon. Hands-on field demonstrations allowed officers to inspect tools such as real-time grain quality cameras and precision seeding technologies.
Although some technology may seem new, Quality Equipment’s Stephen Swain says much of it is already in growers’ fields.
“In our region, nine out of ten new John Deere combines are now sold with Combine Advisor, allowing an operator to maintain performance regardless of changing harvest conditions. Additionally, eight out of ten new seeders are electrically driven, allowing for more precise seeding rates at different speeds and conditions.
Overcoming financial obstacles
Recognizing the high costs of new equipment, AgSouth Farm Credit provided information on leasing and loan options. Concrete examples helped agents guide producers in their search for a balance between efficiency and profitability.
“All this technology comes with a hefty price tag,” said Moore County Constable Liz Joseph. “Hearing about financial strategies to make it more accessible was helpful. »
Industrial partnerships
The event was a collaboration of industry representatives and three extension representatives, Jenny Carleo, Morgan Menaker and Blake Szilvay, dedicated to improving agricultural efficiency.
Matthew Tomberlin of Quality Equipment highlighted the importance of equipping agents with first-hand knowledge.
“Our goal is to work with extensionists and producers to raise awareness of the data and technologies that are within their reach. We are here to help them improve their operations by using data and technology in meaningful ways.
Agent Takeaways
Many agents were present to enrich their technical toolboxes. Greene County Officer Hannah Howe shared her motivation.
“Producers are counting on us for answers. Staying at the forefront of technology ensures that we provide effective support and new ideas.
Seth Nagy of Caldwell County recognized the challenges faced by small farms, but saw opportunities for customization.
“John Deere can do more than Caldwell County can afford,” Nagy joked. “But seriously, there are options for almost every grower. It’s about finding what works at a price you can afford.
Looking to the future
This event marked the first in a three-part series on agricultural technology. The success of the concept has already led to similar training projects in eastern North Carolina.
“It is essential for Extension to stay current with agricultural technology,” said Randolph County Agent Blake Szilvay, co-organizer of the event. “Producers rely on us for unbiased information. Knowing the market and how to apply it keeps us relevant.
Dr Rob Austin, Geographic Information Specialist in Crop and Soil Sciences, added: “Manufacturers are the experts in their technology, but extension can play a key role in helping farmers understand the value of their data and how best to use it to make sound decisions.
Agents can explore future sessions through Extension’s professional development system or by joining the Agronomic Crops Program team led by Rachel Vann.
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