What's Happening?
Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences is initiating a project to train doctoral students in AI-powered precision agriculture tools. Funded by a $238,500 grant from the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, along with over $500,000
in matching support, the program aims to address challenges in tree fruit production. The project will train students in applying AI and precision tools to improve farming practices, focusing on water use, fertilizer application, and pest control. Led by Long He, associate professor of agricultural and biological engineering, the initiative seeks to recruit students from underrepresented backgrounds and provide them with comprehensive training through academic courses, hands-on research, and mentorship.
Why It's Important?
This training program is significant as it addresses the shortage of agricultural scientists skilled in AI and precision tools, which are essential for modernizing farming practices and adapting to climate change. By equipping doctoral students with these skills, the program aims to foster innovation in climate-smart agriculture, potentially leading to more efficient and sustainable farming methods. The initiative also promotes diversity in the field by recruiting students from underrepresented backgrounds, thereby broadening the scope of perspectives and solutions in agricultural research.
