Precision Farming in Illinois: FAQ
In the early 1990s, precision farming was first pioneered along with the introduction of geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS). Now, farmers all over the world are adopting these practices with the same goal in mind: to improve every aspect of their operation. But with newer technology comes many unanswered questions. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly precision farming is and how you can take advantage of it on your land.
What is Precision Farming and how does it work?
Also known as precision ag or satellite farming, precision farming collects, analyzes, and interprets operating data to help you make more informed decisions. By continually building and improving on past performance, you can increase profitability, boost efficiency, and lower operating costs.
Because farming is so labor-intensive, precision farming helps to ease the burdens of operators in multiple different ways. With solutions available for field prepping, planting, applying, and harvesting jobs, you can find year-round solutions that each work to reduce input and create automated processes in their own way.
How can Precision Farming benefit my operation?
Reduce input costs by boosting accuracy.
Maximize output by increasing efficiency.
Improve decision-making by providing vital data.
Lower risks by minimizing room for human error or fatigue.
Improve communication with landowner and suppliers.
How do you get started with Precision Ag?
Let’s start with the basics. When you first introduce precision technology into your operation, you want to start with a display and a receiver. This combo will give you a foundation you can build the rest of your system off of. With several options available, you can choose the display based on your ideal capabilities and the receiver based on the level of accuracy that best fits your preference.
Let’s take it a step further. With several systems available, the possibilities of new techniques are endless. Based on your specific ag goals, you can choose from data management, remote management, automatic guidance, variable rate application, and field and water management systems. Here are a few of our customer favorites here in Illinois.
System | What it does | How this helps |
John Deere Operations Center | Collects valuable operating data and information | Use vital info to make better decisions and learn from your performance over time. |
Connect Mobile | Monitors performance of your combine, planter, or sprayer | Know when to make adjustments to your equipment for better performance. |
AutoTrac Turn Automation | Automatically completes end row turns while carrying out accurate functions | Improves operator’s focus, reduces fatigue, and improves the job’s quality and productivity |
AutoTrac RowSense | Automatically steers through rows at optimum speeds without damaging crops | Reduce operator fatigue, cover more acres, and lower chances of damaged crops. |
AutoTrac Implement Guidance | Accurately guides implements and correctly places input | Decrease crop damage and improve input accuracy to boost crop potential. |
Click here to watch our video on John Deere’s AutoTrac Turn Automation.
Can Precision Farming be used in any operation?
Another great thing about precision farming equipment? It is designed to fully adapt to your specific operation. Whether you harvest hay or grow livestock, whether your operation is small or large-scaled, there is a solution designed to optimize based on your farm’s specific conditions.
Is Precision Farming expensive?
Like any other farming investment, precision ag technology will require some initial costs to get started. What makes this technology so valuable is the return on investment it provides farmers. More precise processes lead to less money being put into your operation and more profit coming out, making it worth well more than the costs. There is a reason the adoption rate of technology in agriculture continues to rapidly grow across the world.
Where can I buy Precision Farming equipment?
At Prairie State Tractor, we offer everything you need to successfully implement precision farming into your operation. Let us know a little bit about your operation and what your short and long-term goals are, and we will help find you the perfect solution within your budget.
Want to learn more about precision farming equipment? No two farms are the same. Give our team a call and we will be happy to find which tools will work best to optimize your operation. As a recent merger between Holland & Sons and Kelly Sauder Rupiper Equipment, Prairie State Tractor has doubled our experience, knowledge, and resources to best serve you.