Digital technologies in agriculture, including precision agriculture, can substantially increase crop and animal yields, improve distribution and reduce input costs.

Without reliable, affordable high-speed internet connectivity at both the farmhouse and in the field, however, many of these technologies cannot realize their full potential, says a 2019 United States Department of Agriculture report titled Insights on Rural Broadband Infrastructure and Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technologies.

Advanced devices, precision agriculture and robotic systems are essential elements to an agricultural industry that contributes an estimated $31.2 billion to the Hoosier economy, along with nearly 200,000 jobs (including just over 94,000 farmers). Indiana is the eighth largest agricultural exporter in the nation at just over $4.6 billion (2018) and more than 80% of land in Indiana is devoted to farms, forests and woodlands.

With its current status and rich tradition, Indiana is positioned to remain a leading agricultural state and enhance its position if it takes the next steps to modernize. Further, property values increase where there is a prevalence of advanced technology, which benefits future generations of farmers by allowing them to be competitive globally.

The Indiana Chamber applauds the Holcomb/Crouch administration’s attention to rural broadband and efforts to connect more rural Hoosiers to high-speed broadband, which likely has never had a higher demand due to the recent rise in at-home working and learning.

The question now becomes: How can the state partner with the private sector to connect more farms, farmers and agricultural operations?

With the 2021 legislative session fast approaching, state lawmakers must consider possibilities to give more options to ag employers seeking to update their business operations. Without better connectivity, producers, manufacturers, researchers and suppliers face inconsistent ability to tap into and master new technologies. This compromises higher yields and greater profitability, meeting the dietary needs of a growing global population and maintaining national competitiveness in international markets.

Resource: Adam H. Berry at (317) 264-6892 or email: aberry@indianachamber.com