Annual agriculture technology conference showcases advancements in the field
(From left) One of the panel discussions at the summit focused on Yuma as a global center for AgTech development. Panelists were Director of the Arizona Department of Agriculture Paul Brierley, Walt Duflock of Western Growers, Yuma County Broadband Program Manager PJ Way, and U of A Cyber & Information Technologies Director Matt Rahr.
Industry experts, farmers, elected officials and U of A faculty and staff explored the latest technology advancements in desert agriculture at the annual The Desert Difference: A Showcase of AgTech Opportunities for Growing in the Desert conference, held earlier this month at the U of A Yuma Agricultural Center. GCR's Jane Hays attended along with faculty and staff members from the U of A's Research, Innovation & Impact office.
Attendees witnessed firsthand how innovative machinery and technologies are transforming farming practices. Field demonstrations provided an ideal setting for experts to engage with industry leaders and get a closer look at the latest technologies. One example was a field demonstration by the U of A's Mark Siemens, associate professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering, which highlighted a 1-centimeter-resolution spot sprayer that uses soil-applied steam for controlling weeds.
The conference covered a wide range of topics, including food security, the global outlook of AgTech (short for agricultural technology), the role of artificial intelligence in farming operations and the future of smart farms. The summit offered valuable insights and networking opportunities for business professionals, growers and academics.