NC State Workshop Equips Extension Agents with AI Tools for Farming
A recent NC State workshop trained agricultural Extension agents on AI applications in farming, aiming to bridge the gap between researchers and farmers for more efficient and sustainable agriculture.
Fifteen agricultural Extension agents from across North Carolina recently participated in a two-day workshop at NC State University’s Plant Sciences Building to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture. The event, titled AI 101 for Extension Agents, aimed to empower agents with knowledge and tools to help farmers adopt AI-driven solutions for greater efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Farmers
The workshop, held in April, featured:
- Lightning talks from NC State researchers, including Dani Jones, an assistant professor of biological and agricultural engineering, who discussed data science applications in farming.
- Hands-on training with SAS Viya, an AI and analytics platform, led by Shelley Hunt, an NC State alumna and SAS systems engineer.
- Insights into ongoing projects, such as weed identification using AI-powered cameras mounted on tractors, presented by Chris Reberg-Horton, a professor of crop and soil sciences.
Dani Jones, a data science expert, discussing her research at the workshop.
Agents as Key Connectors
Extension agents play a critical role in translating complex AI concepts into practical farm applications. Hyde County Agent Andrea Gibbs highlighted the workshop’s value, noting her collaboration with researchers on a water management sensor network for Eastern North Carolina farmers.
"This training was an impactful example of the spirit of N.C. PSI," said Rachel Vann, an NC State Extension specialist. "It connected the applied expertise of our Extension agents with researchers they wouldn’t normally interact with."
SAPLINGS Project and Future Training
The workshop was part of the SAPLINGS project, a multi-institution effort led by N.C. A&T State University and funded by the USDA. The goal is to prepare a data- and AI-savvy workforce in agriculture. Cranos Williams, NC State’s principal investigator, emphasized the importance of lowering barriers to AI adoption for farmers.
Extension agents engaging in small-group discussions during the workshop.
Agents’ Perspectives
- Kimberley Webb (Wake County) sees agents as vital communicators between researchers and farmers: "We can help farmers understand how AI can benefit their operations."
- Karen Blaedow (Henderson County) stressed the need for field-ready technology: "I can help identify what would help a grower make good management decisions."
Graduate student Anh Nguyen demonstrating a portable scanner for sweetpotato growers.
Looking Ahead
With AI rapidly transforming agriculture, Extension agents remain the trusted local link between cutting-edge research and farmers. As Dylan Lilley (Hertford County) noted: "We are the trusted local connection that delivers research-based information to our growers. I’m excited about what lies ahead."
For more details on the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative, visit N.C. PSI.
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