below the soil surface. Sensors are also used to detect nutrients in the soil, soil moisture content and weather stations. “As these sensor networks are built out, it increases our knowledge about what’s going on with our crops,” he said. In order for the new technologies that use artificial intelligence and machine learning to be useful, Shearer said internet connection is going to be key. He said that the rollout of the next generation 5G wireless technology has been primarily in urban centres where there are sufficient numbers of subscriptions to justify the service — not rural areas. Shearer’s take-home messages included the fact that digital automation and technology in agriculture is here to stay, and that it will likely be delivered through the farming as a service business model. It will probably increase equipment use and provide shorter capital recovery times. It will also increase the efficiency of how crop production inputs are used and address the problem of soil compaction. “Technology that was introduced in the 1990s have become part and parcel of our farming equipment today,” he said. “But limited access to broadband will inhibit the adoption of newer technology in rural areas – hopefully between the government and the private sector, we can find solutions.” l ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 15 MARCH 2022 In order for the new technologies that use artificial intelligence and machine learning to be useful, internet connection is going to be key. Proven Biostimulant Tank Mix Program CropBooster® 2.0 / RR SoyBooster® 2.0 in corn, soybeans and wheat Add Agro-100 biostimulants to your post herbicide programs. When tank mixed with your herbicide, CropBooster® 2.0 and RR SoyBooster® 2.0 are field proven to increase yields without reducing weed control. Talk to your Agro-100 representative or Ag retailer. 1 866 770.8887 • www.agro-100.com download the Agro100 application for free today! YEARS ®
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