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Technology on the farm: artificial intelligence (AI) in grain farming

Artificial intelligence can help grain farmers make smart decisions about planting, spraying, and harvesting crops! But, it doesn’t mean robots are running the farm. Instead, AI means farmers can use computers and sensors as tools to analyze data and helps farmers predict what their fields will need to grow healthy crops.

What is AI in farming?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) uses computer programs that can learn from data. It’s a lot like the way you learn from experience!
On grain farms, AI can:
• study satellite or drone images to spot weeds, pests, or crop stress.
• predict how much fertilizer a field needs.
• help farmers plan when to plant or harvest for the best results.

Why is AI useful?

• Saves time and resources – AI tools can quickly analyze thousands of data points that would take humans hours or days.
• Improves accuracy – helps farmers target exactly where to spray or fertilize their fields
• Supports sustainability – helps protect the environment by using less fuel, and by applying things like fertilizers exactly where it is in needed.

Does AI replace farmers?

No way! Farmers are still the decision-makers.
AI gives farmers information and predictions, but people use their experience and knowledge of the land to decide what to do next.

AI is a tool.

How is AI used on farms today?

AI is already at work on some Ontario farms in software, sensors, and precision tools.
For example, farmers might use:
• apps that identify weeds from photos.
• smart sensors that adjust planting patterns based on field size and layout
• yield-mapping systems that suggest where to plant next year’s crops.

As technology improves, more farmers will explore how AI fits their farms.

Fun facts for students

• AI can tell the difference between a weed and a wheat plant using pictures!
• Some combine harvesters now use AI to adjust settings automatically while harvesting.
• Farmers call this type of work “smart farming” or “digital agriculture.”

Big picture

AI is helping farmers make better decisions, use fewer resources, and grow more food — all while protecting the planet.
While we’re still early in the development of AI, it will play a big role in the future of farming — working alongside farmers, not replacing them.

📽️ Check out these videos! 

💡 Minds-on question options

  1. Innovation & Technology:
    How do you think AI “learns” to tell the difference between a crop and a weed?
  2. Problem-Solving:
    Why might AI help farmers reduce waste or protect the environment?
  3. Student Connection:
    How could AI help you in your everyday life — at school or at home?
  4. Future Thinking:
    As AI becomes part of farming, what new careers might exist on farms in the future?

Connections:

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