Will Tech-Dense Farms Revolutionize Agriculture?

The integration of technology in farming, as exemplified by Jake Leguee's operations in Saskatchewan, is reshaping agricultural practices across North America. With innovations in crop spraying and data management, farmers are increasingly able to enhance their efficiency, reduce costs, and improve yields. This trend reflects a broader shift towards tech-centric farming, which could ultimately lead to more stable food prices for consumers.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Farmers like Jake Leguee in Saskatchewan are at the forefront of a technological revolution in agriculture, utilising advanced software and remote sensing technologies to optimise their operations. This shift is not just about improving productivity; it also addresses sustainability concerns and cost management, which are increasingly critical in today's economic climate. With a growing emphasis on efficiency, many farmers across North America are exploring new technologies that promise to enhance their farming practices.

Key takeaways

• Farmers are leveraging technology to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Innovations in crop spraying and data management are key trends in modern agriculture.
• Young farmers are more likely to embrace technology compared to older generations.

Timeline: how we got here

Over the decades, agriculture has seen significant changes, particularly with the introduction of technology. Here’s a brief timeline of key developments:

• 1956: Jake Leguee’s grandfather purchases 17,000 acres in Saskatchewan.
• 2000s: The introduction of precision agriculture technologies begins to reshape farming practices.
• 2022: A report from the US Department of Agriculture highlights the increasing "tech density" of remaining farms as the number of farms declines.
• 2024: A McKinsey survey reveals that 57% of North American farmers are likely to adopt new yield-increasing technologies within two years.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent advancements in crop management software, such as Tend, are enabling farmers to digitise their operations, allowing for better planning and data analysis. Tools that utilise AI and satellite imagery, like Syngenta’s Cropwise, are also gaining traction, providing farmers with actionable insights based on historical weather patterns.

What was already established

The trend toward technological integration in agriculture has been ongoing for years. Farmers have traditionally relied on manual methods for crop management, but the increasing availability of affordable agricultural technology is compelling many to rethink their strategies. The benefits of these technologies include improved crop yields and reduced manual labour.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The adoption of advanced agricultural technologies could lead to more stable food supplies and potentially lower prices for consumers in the UK. Enhanced efficiencies mean that farmers can produce more with less, which may help mitigate price fluctuations in the grocery market.

Businesses and jobs

As farming operations become more tech-driven, there is a growing demand for skilled workers who can operate and maintain this new technology. This shift may create new job opportunities in the agricultural sector, particularly in roles related to data analysis and technology management.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may need to adapt its agricultural policies to support the integration of technology in farming. This could include investment in research and development, as well as subsidies for farmers looking to upgrade their equipment and software.

Numbers that matter

• 57% of North American farmers are expected to try new yield-increasing technologies in the next two years (McKinsey, 2024).
• Farm numbers in the US are decreasing, but the remaining farms are becoming more technologically advanced (US Department of Agriculture, 2022).
• Jake Leguee's farm covers 17,000 acres, showcasing the scale at which modern agriculture operates.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Precision agriculture: A farming management concept that uses technology to monitor and manage field variability in crops.
• Tech density: The concentration of technology used in agricultural operations.
• AI: Artificial Intelligence, which refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Farmers should assess the immediate benefits of integrating technology into their operations. This may include exploring software that can streamline record-keeping or enhance crop management.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Consider investing in precision agriculture tools that can help increase yields and reduce operational costs. Look for training opportunities in new technologies to ensure effective implementation.

Signals to watch

• Monitor trends in agricultural technology adoption rates among local farms.
• Keep an eye on government policy changes regarding agricultural technology funding and support.
• Watch for developments in AI and data management solutions tailored for agriculture.

Practical guidance

Do

• Research available agricultural technologies that may benefit your specific farming operations.
• Attend workshops or training sessions focused on modern farming techniques and technologies.
• Network with other farmers to share experiences and insights about technology adoption.

Don’t

• Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice when choosing technology solutions.
• Don’t overlook the importance of data management in improving farm efficiency.
• Don’t resist change; adapting to new technologies could be crucial for the sustainability of your farm.

Checklist

• Evaluate your current farming practices and identify areas for improvement.
• Consider the costs versus benefits of new technologies.
• Research software tools that can aid in data management and yield forecasting.
• Stay informed about technological advancements in agriculture.
• Set realistic goals for technology adoption over the next year.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While technology holds great promise for improving agricultural efficiency, there are inherent risks involved. Not all technologies may deliver the expected return on investment, and farmers must be cautious about over-relying on tech solutions without understanding their limitations. Additionally, the pace of technological change can be daunting, and farmers may face a learning curve that could impact short-term productivity.

Bottom line

The integration of technology in farming is transforming agricultural practices, with significant implications for both producers and consumers. As farmers like Jake Leguee embrace these innovations, they pave the way for a more efficient and sustainable agricultural sector. Keeping abreast of trends and advancements will be crucial for success in the evolving landscape of agriculture.

FAQs

What role does technology play in modern farming?

Technology enhances efficiency in modern farming by automating processes, improving data management, and enabling precision agriculture techniques.

How can farmers benefit from using software tools?

Farmers can streamline operations, optimise crop management, and make informed decisions by using software tools that provide real-time data and insights.

Are older farmers resistant to adopting new technology?

While some older farmers may be hesitant to adopt new technologies, many are recognising the importance of evolving practices to remain competitive and sustainable.