Future of Grain
HIGHLIGHTING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN GRAIN PRODUCTION AND UTILIZATION
AFS ConnectTM by Case IH
Case IH’s new AFS ConnectTM system uses telematics technology (a combination of global positioning system and cellular) to keep producers up to date on their entire equipment fleet, from field machines to road vehicles.
The system allows you to accurately pinpoint the exact location of a machine, communicate directly to the cab display of any machine, and generate real-time reports on productivity including idle time, traveling, and working hours. It will also provide maintenance due alerts and can be set to send out alerts when machines enter and exit the field and crop storage areas.
Data is saved on the AFS Connect cloud for 18 months but can be archived for longer periods on the producer’s local drive. The producer can determine who has access to most of the data stored on the system. Only select data is collectively analyzed for quality improvements; no one at Case IH or its dealerships can access agronomic data unless the producer chooses to share it. Case IH is a founding member of the Open Ag Data Alliance (OADA). The guiding principal of OADA is that each farmer owns data generated or entered by the farmer, their employees, or by machines performing on-farm activities. •
Who are you following?
Farmers are using Twitter to stay connected and up to date with industry news. Each month, Ontario Grain Farmer magazine will highlight Twitter accounts we think you should consider following or hashtags (#) that will help you join specific conversations.
@AMIOntario
The Agri-food Management Institute (AMI) encourages Ontario food producers and food and beverage processors to take new approaches to business management. They run the Most Profitable Acre Challenge for corn and soybean growers. To participate, register by November 23 at www.takeanewapproach.ca/ challenge.
@OspreyBeekeeper
Beekeeper Hugh Simpson owns Osprey Bluffs Honey Company in Feversham. He participated in a ‘Day for Bees and Agriculture’ this summer which drew industry representatives, stakeholders, and beekeepers together. Simpson is very active on Twitter and frequently participates in dialogue about Ontario bees and beekeeping. •
The Digital Toolbox
The smartphone, tablet and computer are important tools on today’s farms. Each month, Ontario Grain Farmer magazine will highlight an app, online tool, or website that may help you in the field or in the farm office.
Pioneer Field360
The Pioneer Field360 Plantability app is a planter settings calculator designed for corn and sunflower seeds. Users select their planter type, then scan or type in a seed batch ID from the Pioneer seed bag. The free app also gives seed corn plantability guidelines and planter adjustment tips. It is available for iPad, iPhone, and Android mobile devices.
The Pioneer Field360 Tools app includes a Growing Degree Unit (GDU) calculator, a Precipitation Estimator, and Growth Stage Estimator to monitor and estimate crop development through the year. The app is available for $9.99 on the Apple and Google Play app stores. •
