Federal grants boost North Dakota's precision ag research

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota is stepping into the future of farming with a significant boost from federal grants totaling more than $50 million. This funding aims to make the state a frontrunner in precision agriculture—a modern approach to farming that leverages technology for more efficient crop and livestock management.

Precision agriculture uses tools like global positioning systems (GPS) to enhance farming operations, making it possible to increase yields while conserving resources.

A portion of the funds, around $25 million, is designated for research projects in North Dakota, including improvements to Agricultural Research Service (ARS) stations. This research is not only crucial for the state but has the potential to benefit farmers nationwide.

North Dakota State University (NDSU) plays a pivotal role in this advancement, with $19.5 million allocated for initiatives including expanding precision agriculture research. This investment in technology underscores NDSU's commitment to integrating agriculture with the latest tech advancements, promising economic benefits for the state's farmers and ranchers.

Additionally, NDSU is set to receive $2 million for the establishment of a new agriculture policy research center. Scheduled to open this fall, the center will focus on addressing the challenges faced by farms and agribusiness through in-depth policy and economic analysis.

It aims to equip lawmakers with the knowledge needed to create informed agricultural policies, thereby supporting the agricultural sector's growth and sustainability.

Other investments include $3 million for renovations at the Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center and $2 million for an AgTech Cooperative Agreement, which will foster collaborations between NDSU, ARS, and Grand Farm. These partnerships are vital for bringing together growers, businesses, and researchers to tackle agricultural challenges collaboratively.

These federal grants are a game-changer for North Dakota, promising to elevate the state's agriculture industry to new heights through innovation and research. This initiative not only supports local farmers and ranchers but also sets the stage for North Dakota to influence agriculture practices and policies on a global scale.

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