University Research Team Develops Real-Time Plant Monitoring System to Optimize Farming
A collaborative research team from the University of Georgia, Iowa State University, and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, funded by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), is developing an innovative farming tool. This system integrates tiny sensors, simple hardware, software, and machine learning to monitor plants and soil in real time. The technology provides farmers with precise guidance on irrigation and fertilization, aiming to enhance crop productivity while conserving resources. Dr. Kelly Garbach, NIFA national program leader, emphasized the practical benefits of this tool in strengthening the food supply, protecting water resources, and reducing costs. Lead researcher Dr. Liang Dong highlighted the system's ability to make plant needs visible and actionable, allowing farmers to maintain productivity with fewer resources. 
