By Scout Nelson
On Wednesday, Sept. 18, partners in a key initiative aimed at advancing the agriculture technology industry gathered at the North Dakota state Capitol in Bismarck to celebrate investments made by the state.
Grand Farm, a leading force in agricultural innovation, received a $10 million grant from the North Dakota Legislature and Department of Commerce in 2022 to improve farming practices through advanced technology, particularly focusing on automation.
North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring emphasized the importance of technology in modern farming, stating, “Agriculture is a data-driven industry,” and highlighting the numerous factors farmers consider each day, such as soil conditions and pest management.
He praised Grand Farm for creating valuable opportunities for research and development, positioning the initiative as a crucial player in enhancing agricultural efficiency.
Located on a 590-acre site in Casselton, Grand Farm has constructed a 25,000-square-foot Innovation Campus where partners utilize data to test, refine, and implement new technologies. The campus supports a range of educational activities for stakeholders interested in deploying innovative methods like drone imagery and advanced field and climate monitoring sensors.
This environment fosters collaboration and learning, equipping the agricultural community with cutting-edge tools and knowledge.
Greg Tehven, CEO and co-founder of Emerging Prairie, the nonprofit organization that powers Grand Farm, noted that the initial investment funding has been fully allocated to the project's first phase. This financial support has enabled the establishment of a robust platform for ongoing technological advancements in agriculture.
Senate Majority Leader David Hogue underscored the broader impact of Grand Farm's work, particularly in addressing North Dakota’s workforce challenges. Hogue expressed legislative support for advancing automation technology, viewing it as a vital part of the workforce development solution.
The continued efforts of Grand Farm and its partners signal a strong commitment to transforming agriculture in North Dakota. By integrating technology and fostering innovation, the initiative is poised to make a significant impact on farming practices and help bridge the state's workforce gap.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: North Dakota, Business