How Are AI Agriculture Applications Changing the Face of Farming

As one of the oldest and most vital professions in the world, agriculture has evolved since the introduction of various technologies. Two major factors to consider are the world’s growing population and the need for more food. Farmers have become more resourceful to meet this demand and are becoming more efficient, producing more crops yet using less land and increasing crop productivity and yield. AI technologies are now being used to help improve crop health and complete a wide range of agricultural tasks that impact the whole food supply chain. Here are some recent applications –

#1 Collect Data – AI can help farmers analyze various factors that impact their operations. For example, farmers can collect data around soil conditions, temperature, water usage and weather conditions to make better-informed decisions overall. One example of AI contributing to optimized planning is determining crop choices – the best hybrid seed options and resource utilization – to generate more bountiful yields.

#2 Seasonal Forecasting – AI can be used to produce seasonal forecasting models, which improves agricultural accuracy and raise productivity. Having the ability to predict weather patterns in advance is especially valuable to small farms in developing countries as their data and knowledge can be limited. These farms produce 70% of the world’s crops, so keeping them operational and growing bountiful crops is very important.

#3 Drones – There is also much data to be found from above. AI incorporates into drones that fly over crops using computer vision and algorithms to capture data for farmers. Cameras can take a snapshot of the entire farm, and farmers use this to help identify problem areas or zones that require improvement. The use of drones is highly efficient as it takes less time and effort than traditional methods of farmers monitoring on foot.

#4 Agriculture Bots – Labour challenges are a real concern, especially with the industry’s current position during the COVID-19 outbreak. AI agriculture bots can be used to harvest crops more productively and at a faster pace than human labourers. They are also effective at identifying and eliminating weeds. Costs overall are drastically reduced as the need for full-time labourers is eliminated.

The need for food will never go away. In our current times, it is more important than ever to produce more with less. Agriculture AI technologies can help farmers across the globe run more efficient and productive operations while continuing to provide healthy and nourishing food to the world’s population.