University of Missouri unveils new Agri-Tech center

Feb 06, 2024

By: Farms.com

The University of Missouri has launched the Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center (DAREC), a collaboration between the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, MU Extension, and the USDA Agricultural Research Service, aiming to transform Missouri's agricultural landscape into a future of enhanced productivity, sustainability, and profitability through digital technologies and AI.

Shibu Jose, CAFNR's associate dean for research, emphasized the evolving skill sets required for modern farming and the importance of preparing the next generation of farmers to embrace technological advancements.

DAREC will delve into various agricultural domains, including crop production, soil health, and precision livestock farming, supported by faculty, student research, and partnerships with industry and agencies.

A key feature of DAREC will be the MU Digital Farm at MU's South Farm, which will serve as a field demonstration site showcasing the practical benefits of digital farming tools. Jianfeng Zhou, an associate professor and co-director of DAREC, highlights the center's role in adopting and demonstrating next-generation agricultural technologies for both educational and research purposes.

The center aims to foster confidence and trust among farmers and stakeholders regarding the adoption of new technologies through proactive education and outreach efforts. Rob Kallenbach, CAFNR's associate dean of extension, noted that DAREC will work closely with MU Extension specialists to ensure Missouri farmers have access to the latest in digital agriculture technologies.

With leadership from Zhou, Kent Shannon, and Ken Sudduth of the USDA Agricultural Research Service, DAREC is poised to significantly impact Missouri's agricultural industry. A symposium planned for this spring will further showcase the center's objectives and initiatives.

Video: Veteran Farmers: A Legacy of Service in Rural America

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have selflessly protected our freedoms and values. And for some, the transition from military service to civilian life brings them back to the farm.

At Farm Bureau, we believe it’s important to not only celebrate veterans but also those who continue to make a difference in agriculture and their community. We've partnered with Farm Credit to establish the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence to shine a light on those who have continued to go above and beyond to serve their communities.

This year, we recognize retired Colonel Joe Ricker as the inaugural Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence winner. Joe served over 30 years in the Army before retiring from the Pentagon and completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving the Army, his commitment to excellence in farming and enriching the lives of veterans has blossomed in a myriad of ways in both his local community of Wilkinson, Indiana, and across the country. Joe grows apples and raises bees on his farm in Indiana. Joe founded “Veterans IN Farming,” an organization, now with more than 1,100 members, dedicated to providing veterans in Indiana with the tools and training to succeed in agriculture.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent, non-governmental, voluntary organization, comprised of and directed by farm and ranch families who engage in all types of food, fuel and fiber production.