PRECISION AGRICULTURE DIGITAL DIGEST WINTER 2025/2026 VOL 6, ISSUE 4 PRECISION AGRICULTURE DIGITAL DIGEST TAKES A LOOK AT AI IN THE FIELD SEE & SPRAY OFFERS COMPUTER VISION AND MACHINE LEARNING TO IDENTIFY WEEDS AI-POWERED PRECISION WEEDING COMES TO NORTH AMERICAN FARMS 14 16
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PRECISION AGRICULTURE DIGITAL DIGEST Farms.com’s Media and Publishing division is responsible for publishing Precision Ag Magazine. © 2025/2026 Farms.com Canada Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement of the advertiser, it products or services, nor does Farms.com make any claims or guarantees as to the accuracy or validity of advertiser claims. The publisher shall have no liability for the unintentional omission of any scheduled advertising. PHOTOS: a-r-t-i-s-t/DigitalVision Vectors via Getty Images, hudiemm/iStock/Getty Images Plus COVER PHOTOS: Neustockimages/iStock/Getty Images Plus, hudiemm/iStock/Getty Images Plus, stefann11/iStock/Getty Images Plus, simon2579/DigitalVision Vectors via Getty Images, Zhanna – stock.adobe.com 04 06 08 11 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Joseph Andrew.Joseph@Farms.com CONTRIBUTORS Diego Flammini DESIGN Greg Marlow ADVERTISING SALES Andrew Bawden Andrew.Bawden@Farms.com 877.438.5729 x 5030 Jeff McKee Jeff.McKee@Farms.com 888.248.4893 x 917 EDITOR, MARKETING & OPERATIONS Denise Faguy Denise.Faguy@Farms.com 888.248.4893 x 293 FARMS.COM OFFICE 90 Woodlawn Road West Guelph, ON N1H 1B2 SUBSCRIBE HERE to receive email notifications when future issues of the quarterly Farms.com Precision Agriculture Digital Digest are published. EAVISION J150’S HIGH-CAPACITY SPRAY DRONE BUSHEL PLUS PARTNERS WITH JOHN DEERE TO BOOST HARVEST PRECISION I SPEAK FOR THE SOY, FOR THE BEANS HAVE NO VOICE THE AWARD-WINNING FENDT 832 VARIO TRACTOR PAG TECH CLIPS SEE & SPRAY OFFERS COMPUTER VISION AND MACHINE LEARNING TO IDENTIFY WEEDS AI-POWERED PRECISION WEEDING COMES TO NORTH AMERICAN FARMS YAMAHA MOTOR LAUNCHES US PRECISION AGRICULTURE COMPANY SYNGENTA AND TARANIS FORGE AI PARTNERSHIP BITS & BYTES CASE IH ADDS TO STEIGER QUADTRAC SERIES POWER, PRECISION, AND PRODUCTIVITY We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. PRECISION, POWER, PROGRESS AI, IOT, AND AGTECH FOR TOMORROW’S FARMS.
Agri Spray Drones is a Boonville, Missouri-based leader in agricultural drone solutions, focused on empowering farmers and ag professionals with cutting-edge spray technology. The company provides high-quality drones, comprehensive training, FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) compliance support, and expert aftersales service, making drone adoption practical and profitable for modern operations. As the company emphasizes, “We don’t just sell drones; we provide the tools, training, and support you need to succeed.” This commitment has made Agri Spray Drones a trusted partner for growers looking to integrate UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) technology into their operations. Introducing the EAVision J150 The EAVision J150 is being marketed as “Higher Power. Superior Performance.” This new drone is designed for serious operators who demand reliability, flexibility, and productivity at scale. The company calls this drone a big step forward for aerial spraying and spreading, combining high payload capacity, advanced flight control, and robust safety features. • Spray Tank Capacity: 20 gallons—a larger tank means fewer refills, allowing operators to cover more acres per flight and maximize efficiency during tight spray windows. • Spreader Capacity: 180 pounds—high payload capacity enables seeding or fertilizer applications at scale, reducing trips and improving productivity for large-acre operations. • Spray Flow Rate: 10.5 gallons per minute—a high flow rate ensures rapid, uniform coverage, which is critical for achieving effective application in short weather windows. • Max Spraying Speed: 30 mph (with full obstacle avoidance and terrain following enabled)— faster speeds combined with safety features allow operators to complete jobs quickly without compromising precision or safety. • Adjustable Droplet Sizes: 10–300+ microns— flexible droplet control lets applicators tailor spray patterns for different crops, chemicals, and conditions, reducing drift and improving efficacy. As the company has pointed out, “The J150 is built for operators who need to cover more acres in less time without sacrificing precision.” The J150 isn’t just about size—it’s about intelligence. It features 360-degree spherical obstacle avoidance, ensuring safe flight in complex environments. Operators can run multiple drones in the same field without signal interference, thanks to an advanced data link system. Even if the radio link is lost, the drone stays connected via standard 4G connectivity, maintaining control and safety. 04 The EAVision J150 is being hailed as a next-generation agricultural spray drone designed for large-scale efficiency, advanced obstacle avoidance, and rugged reliability. EAVISION J150’S HIGH-CAPACITY SPRAY DRONE ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM
05 The redesigned remote control offers ergonomic comfort and high-speed response, making all-day operation less fatiguing and more precise. As the company puts it, “Safety and reliability are at the core of every feature we build into the J150.” Built for Endurance and Efficiency The J150 is engineered for long, demanding spray days: • Battery: 45,000 mAh with airflow cooling for heat management; • Propellers: Upgraded 63-inch blades for powerful lift and balance; • Performance: Maintains 30 mph speed even uphill with a full tank; • Durability: Modular wiring and upgraded terminals for quick repairs and lower maintenance costs. Agri Spray Drones said that its EAVision drones have logged over 1,000,000 acres in the US in 2025—a point it said proves their durability and performance in realworld conditions. The basic J150 package includes a drone with remote control, three batteries, and a charger. There are also optional add-ons: • Regulations Package: FAA compliance support (Part 137 authorization, 44807 exemption); • Extended Coverage Plan: Warranty enhancements and operator error coverage; • Spreader Attachment: Adds seeding, fertilizer, and cover crop capability; • Superlink RTK Station: Centimeter-level accuracy for mapping and guidance. As Agri Spray Drones explains, “Our packages are designed to give operators everything they need to start spraying with confidence.” The EAVision J150 addresses key challenges in modern crop management, such as: • Labor efficiency, reducing the reliance on ground rigs and manual spraying; • Input optimization: Precise droplet control minimizes waste and drift; • Terrain adaptability handles slopes and irregular fields with ease; • Scalability: Multi-drone operation supports largeacre farms and custom applicators. For growers facing tight spray windows and rising input costs, drones like the J150 offer a flexible, highoutput alternative that integrates seamlessly with precision ag workflows. Agri Spray Drones’ EAVision J150 is more than a drone—it’s a high-capacity aerial application system built for speed, safety, and scale. With advanced obstacle avoidance, robust connectivity, and proven field performance, the J150 sets a new benchmark for UAV spraying technology in North America. Agri Spray Drones is the only US drone sales company that also operates heavy drones in custom application services, meaning they not only sell drones but also provide spraying services through certified applicators. Farmers who prefer not to operate drones themselves (farmers can operate the J150 themselves, but they must meet FAA requirements for agricultural drone use) can hire professionals via Agri Spray Drones’ Custom Applicator Locator, which connects growers with licensed, FAA-certified drone applicators in their area. | pag PHOTO: agrispraydrones.com “THE J150 IS BUILT FOR OPERATORS WHO NEED TO COVER MORE ACRES IN LESS TIME WITHOUT SACRIFICING PRECISION.”
Bushel Plus Ltd. of Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, has announced a strategic partnership with John Deere (Deere & Co.) that will make the Bushel Plus SmartPan System available through John Deere’s North American dealer network. This collaboration combines Bushel Plus’s proven drop-pan measurement technology with John Deere’s advanced Harvest Settings Automation, delivering farmers the tools to minimize harvest loss, optimize combine performance, and increase profitability. “John Deere and Bushel Plus share a commitment to innovation and farmer success,” commented Ryan Krogh, Global Combine and FEE Business Manager at John Deere. “Our decision to partner was driven by aligned values—both companies prioritize solutions that empower growers to maximize efficiency and profitability.” Krough continued, “This partnership is an important step for us to give our customers access and training to use the SmartPan System in combination with the Harvest Settings Automation technology, giving producers the tools they need to reduce harvest losses and make data driven decisions with confidence.” John Deere’s Harvest Settings Automation automatically adjusts key combine parameters—such as rotor speed, fan speed, concave clearance, and sieve and chaffer settings—in real time to maintain operator-defined limits for grain loss, broken grain, and foreign material. The SmartPan System complements this automation by providing ground-truth data for calibrating loss targets within the Harvest Settings Automation screen. 06 A new partnership integrates the Bushel Plus SmartPan System with John Deere’s Harvest Settings Automation, giving farmers real-time data to reduce grain loss and improve profitability. BUSHEL PLUS PARTNERS WITH JOHN DEERE TO BOOST HARVEST PRECISION ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM
07 By physically collecting and calculating true bushelsper-acre losses, the SmartPan System ensures that automated settings align with actual field conditions. Farmers can drop the pan at any point during harvest, compare SmartPan results to their John Deere G5Plus display, and fine-tune machine settings accordingly. This integration helps operators maintain productivity while keeping losses below their defined limits. Under the agreement, John Deere dealers across the US and Canada will sell and support the SmartPan System, giving farmers streamlined access through the same trusted network they rely on for combines and technology integration. “We are excited to partner with John Deere, marking a major milestone in our growth and global reach,” said Marcel Kringe, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bushel Plus. “John Deere’s commitment to innovation, as the world’s largest manufacturer of agricultural equipment, aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver market leading harvest optimization solutions and technology. This milestone showcases our team’s global efforts and the trust farmers place in our technology. The positive feedback we receive— showing that our solutions deliver real value and profitability—is truly humbling. With OEM endorsement, the phrase ‘you can’t manage what you don’t measure’ reaches a whole new level.” According to Kringe, the SmartPan System provides farmers with immediate, actionable intelligence that strengthens harvest precision, equipment efficiency, and crop management decisions. “Seedtoharvest precision is only as good as the data behind it,” he said. “By working hand-in-hand with John Deere, we’re delivering a streamlined flow of data between field measurements and machine analytics, enabling farmers to refine combine calibration and automation for more efficient harvesting, reduced grain loss, and ultimately higher profitability.” The SmartPan System is engineered to support a wide range of crops—including corn, soybeans, wheat, canola, barley, rice, and milo—and is available in multiple pan sizes to fit various John Deere combine models and field conditions. | pag PHOTO: bushelplus.com “BY WORKING HAND-IN-HAND WITH JOHN DEERE, WE’RE DELIVERING A STREAMLINED FLOW OF DATA BETWEEN FIELD MEASUREMENTS AND MACHINE ANALYTICS, ENABLING FARMERS TO REFINE COMBINE CALIBRATION AND AUTOMATION FOR MORE EFFICIENT HARVESTING, REDUCED GRAIN LOSS, AND ULTIMATELY HIGHER PROFITABILITY.”
Those familiar with Dr. Seuss (aka Ted Geisel) will know the headline paraphrases one from the ecological green book, The Lorax, though by definition alone it could even be the microscopic Whos in Whoville from the equally awesome Horton Hears a Who! But it doesn’t. Instead, it references CropVoice, InnerPlant’s breakthrough plant-sensing and analytics platform that transforms soybeans into real-time disease indicators. Instead of relying on scouting or predictive models, CropVoice uses engineered soybeans—called InnerSoy—that emit an optical signal when their immune system detects fungal infection. These signals are captured by sensors on equipment, drones, or satellites and analyzed through InnerPlant’s AI (artificial intelligence)-driven platform to deliver confirmed, geolocated alerts to growers. This approach closes the gap between infection and visible symptoms, which can span weeks for diseases like white mold or frogeye leaf spot. By detecting infection at its earliest stage, CropVoice enables timely, targeted fungicide applications, which help reduce unnecessary chemical use and preserve yield potential. Traditional disease management forces growers to choose between prophylactic whole-field sprays or waiting until symptoms appear—often too late to prevent yield loss. CropVoice changes that equation by signaling infection “as it begins,” giving farmers confidence to act before disease spreads. 08 I SPEAK FOR THE SOY, FOR THE BEANS HAVE NO VOICE InnerPlant’s CropVoice platform delivers the world’s first real-time fungal infection alerts in soybeans, giving growers actionable intelligence to protect yields and reduce risk. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM
09 “Farming involves a great deal of risk—from weather to insects to disease—and often we lack real-time data to make well-informed decisions,” stated Brandon Hunnicutt, a large farm operator as owner and partner of Hunnicutt Farms in Giltner, Nebraska, via an InnerPlant press release. “CropVoice takes the guesswork out of soybean fungicide decisions by giving a warning of infection early enough to take action and protect yields.” The efforts of this real-time intelligence helps growers optimize timing, reduce input costs, and improve sustainability by minimizing off-target applications and resistance pressure. The World’s First Real-Time Detection Headquartered in Davis, California, InnerPlant is an agricultural biotechnology company that develops crops capable of signaling stress—such as disease or nutrient deficiencies—through optical markers, enabling real-time detection and actionable insights for growers. In 2025, the InnerPlant company achieved a historic milestone: the world’s first real-time detection of fungal infection in soybeans. The CropVoice network, deployed across Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota, identified infections in Yankton County, South Dakota, and northern Cedar County, Nebraska—weeks before symptoms appeared in the field. Alerts were sent directly to growers and agronomists, enabling proactive action. “This detection is the first time in the 10,000-year history of agriculture that an infection was detected in real-time and farmers notified of the threat,” pointed out Shely Aronov, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of InnerPlant to Precision Ag Digest. “The value of data that confirms an infection weeks before symptoms are visible in the field fundamentally changes how farmers manage disease and is key to driving the commercial demand we’re seeing to expand the reach of the CropVoice network.” The network covered 50,000 acres in 2025 and is scaling to over half a million acres in 2026 through partnerships with leading CropLife 100 retailers, making early detection accessible to more growers across the Midwest. From Alert to Action: A Farmer’s Perspective For agronomists and growers, timing is everything. CropVoice alerts provide confirmation that disease is present—not just probable—helping them make confident decisions. PHOTO: InnerPlant “CROPVOICE TAKES THE GUESSWORK OUT OF SOYBEAN FUNGICIDE DECISIONS BY GIVING A WARNING OF INFECTION EARLY ENOUGH TO TAKE ACTION AND PROTECT YIELDS.”
WATCH THE VIDEO 10 “I knew I was going to spray for white mold, but I wasn’t sure about when,” recalled Dylan Tacke, a Wausa, Nebraska, Agronomy Sales Representative for CHS Agronomy. He received one of the historic alerts. “When I got the alert, I knew that it was time, and it was good to have confirmation before putting money down in the field.” This kind of actionable intelligence reduces uncertainty and aligns fungicide applications with actual infection events, improving ROI (return on investment) and operational efficiency. How Crop Voice Works: 01 Signal Generation: InnerSoy plants emit a fluorescence signal when it is infected by fungal pathogens. 02 Data Capture: The system uses stationary detection bars (shown in the picture below) rather than drones, tractors, or satellites, although those are future detection methods the company is considering. 03 Validation: InnerPlant confirms detections through lab analysis and local scouting before issuing alerts. 04 Actionable Alerts: Growers receive notifications with location-specific guidance for scouting or spraying. 05 Continuous Feedback: Post-action imaging feeds back into the analytics layer for seasonlong optimization. Because the system integrates with existing workflows, growers can incorporate detection into normal operations without major changes. Some of the extremely positive implications for precision agriculture include: • Yield protection, where acting early preserves canopy health and pod fill, reducing losses from foliar diseases. • Input efficiency gains whereby targeted spraying lowers chemical use, fuel, and labor costs while improving sustainability. • Risk management—receiving real-time alerts helps improve timing, reducing retreatment rates and resistance risk. • Scalability via plant-based sensing scales across geographies without the necessity of heavy hardware investment. For agronomic service providers, CropVoice offers a brand new form of advisory model—moving from calendar-based recommendations to evidence-based disease management. Looking Ahead InnerPlant plans to expand CropVoice beyond soybeans, adding stress channels for insects, nutrient deficiencies, and water stress. The company also aims to increase detection frequency through satellite constellations and autonomous platforms, delivering even tighter decision windows. As InnerPlant’s Aronov emphasized to this magazine, the ability to confirm infection weeks before symptoms appear is a “paradigm shift” for agriculture. It’s not just about disease control—it’s about transforming how growers manage risk, allocate resources, and protect yield in an increasingly volatile environment. CropVoice calls its tech a part of a new era in precision agriculture—where plants themselves provide the earliest, most reliable signals of disease. For growers and agronomists, that means fewer guesses, smarter timing, and better outcomes for both profitability and sustainability. | pag PHOTO: InnerPlant
A tractor from Fendt took home two awards at the 2025 AGRITECHNICA in Hanover, Germany. Fendt’s 832 Vario won a Farm Machine 2025 Award in the mid-range tractors category, which celebrates innovations and product excellence. The tractor was also the recipient of an Audience Choice Award, which lets the public vote on their favorite pieces of equipment. So, what does the Fendt 832 Vario bring to producers? It’s the most powerful tractor in the fifth generation 800 series with its 320 hp and 1,239 pounds of torque. One of the more impressive options available on the 832 is DynamicPerformance. This upgrade lets the tractor release 23 hp when required, bringing the maximum possible horsepower on the 832 to 343 hp. In terms of precision tech, the 832 Vario and its series colleagues have technologies like VarioDrive. This feature means the front and rear axles are driven separately at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph). VarioDrive also supports small turning circles with the pull-in turn effect, which sees the front axle pull the machine into the turn. This size of the turning circle is reduced by about 10 per cent resulting in more precise movements. Fendt’s 800 Vario tractors, like the 832, benefit from the manufacturer’s iD low-speed concept. This feature coordinates the engine and transmission, resulting in providing high torque at low speeds and low fuel consumption. And farmers don’t have to alter the VarioDrive to use the low-speed concept. Another feature available is VarioGrip. The VarioGrip system lets operators set tire pressures for field work and road use separately on the front and rear axles. Even while driving, the system can adapt tire pressure from 8.7 to 36.3 PSI. More information on the Fendt Vario tractors can be found on Fendt’s website or from any one of the many authorized dealers. | pag 11 PHOTO: fendt.com THE AWARD-WINNING FENDT 832 VARIO TRACTOR It won two awards at 2025 AGRITECHNICA. DIEGO FLAMMINI FARMS.COM
12 05 Precision Planting HeadSight & TrueSight Precision Planting’s HeadSight’s advanced header height control and TrueSight steering systems improve header performance, crop flow, and harvesting accuracy in the field. Both were designed for precision and protection, giving operators better control, reduced stress, and measurable yield advantages. 03 John Deere Harvest Automation Features Delivering up to 20% higher productivity with Predictive Ground Speed Automation and Harvest Settings Automation, John Deere explains these two key features. They also offer improved fuel efficiency, and consistent grain quality across varying field conditions. 01 Precision Planting/ John Deere IRHD Solution For farmers looking to upgrade older John Deere planters without replacing components that still work, Precision Planting offers the Individual Row Hydraulic Downforce (IRHD) retrofit solution (using the 202/20 monitor) to give growers a cost-effective way to modernize worn planters while keeping high-value parts in operation. 04 Case IH’s FieldOps Case IH’s FieldOps is an advanced telematics platform designed to connect operators, machines, and data seamlessly across desktop and mobile devices. FieldOps combines data management with automation tools to help farmers save time, improve accuracy, and enhance efficiency. TECH CLIPS WATCH 02 PTx Trimble FarmENGAGE PTx Trimble does care what color your data is, and has launched FarmENGAGE, a farm information management system developed in partnership with PTx, AGCO, and Trimble. The platform redefines how farmers collect, analyze, and share operational data—no matter what color their equipment is. WATCH WATCH WATCH WATCH
13 07 PTx Starlink Mini for Agriculture Available through both the PTX Trimble and Precision Planting channels, the Starlink Mini Connectivity Bundle from PTX. Strategic & Marketing Specialist Bethany Schell explains how this compact, high-speed connectivity solution delivers reliable in-field data flow across your entire precision ag workflow. 06 Fendt Optimum Planter The all-new Fendt Optimum Planter is engineered to deliver superior seed placement, terrain adaptability, and operator flexibility. It features a four-point flex toolbar, optional vertical contouring hitch (VCH), as well as multiple hopper options. 08 Precision Planting DrySet Micro The Precision Planting DrySet Micro and the 12mm blockage sensor give farmers accurate application, flexibility, and confidence in the field. DrySet Micro is the newest granular applicator, offering versatility, accuracy, and safer insecticide handling. WATCH WATCH WATCH 10 Precision Planting DuraWear The new DuraWear Depth Handle from Precision Planting is designed to eliminate depth variability and make accurate calibration easy, helping growers achieve consistent, repeatable planting depth. WATCH PHOTOS: DS70/E+ via Getty Images, stefann11/iStock/Getty Images Plus, hudiemm/iStock/Getty Images Plus 09 Furrow Vision from John Deere John Deere’s Furrow Vision helps. The give operators real-time visibility of what’s happening below the row unit to help verify planting depth and identify residue issues. WATCH WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF PRECISION AGRICULTURE? WATCH & LEARN TO FIND OUT
John Deere (Deere & Co.) is now offering See & Spray Ultimate, an AI (artificial intelligence) technology it says is redefining weed control. What’s so special? It combines computer vision, machine learning, and precision nozzle control to deliver herbicide only where it’s needed. And, because farmers everywhere are facing rising input costs, herbicide resistance, and tight application windows, this technology is more than a convenience—it’s a real-life game-changer. Launched as part of Deere’s precision ag portfolio, See & Spray Ultimate uses 36 high-resolution cameras mounted on a carbon fiber boom to scan fields at speeds up to 15 mph (~24 kph), identifying weeds and activating individual spray nozzles within milliseconds. The system processes over 2,500 square feet per second, applying herbicide only where weeds are detected. This targeted approach reduces non-residual herbicide use by up to two-thirds, saving farmers money while minimizing environmental impact. John Deere pointed out that the new See & Spray Ultimate technology uses computer vision and machine learning to—in season—target weeds in corn, soybean, and cotton fields so that farmers use only what they need and use more advanced tank mixes thanks to its dual-tank configuration. The sprayer’s dual-tank configuration adds another layer of efficiency. Farmers can apply two different mixes—such as a targeted non-residual spray and a residual broadcast—in a single pass, cutting labor and fuel costs while improving weed control strategies. Weed Management Weed management is one of the most expensive and time-sensitive tasks in row crop production. Herbicide costs have soared, and resistant weeds like waterhemp and Palmer amaranth are forcing growers to rethink their strategies. See & Spray addresses these challenges head-on by reducing chemical use and enabling more complex tank mixes without antagonism. Farmers have reported 60–70 percent savings on herbicide costs in field trials, along with fewer tendering stops and more acres per day. Beyond cost savings, targeted spraying reduces crop stress and drift, protecting plant health and improving yield potential. Deere-sponsored research across seven states showed an average yield increase of two bushels per acre, with some trials reaching nearly five bushels compared to traditional broadcast spraying. Founded in 1837 by blacksmith John Deere, the company revolutionized agriculture with the invention of the self-scouring steel plow. Today, Deere & Company is tackling weeds. 14 SEE & SPRAY OFFERS COMPUTER VISION AND MACHINE LEARNING TO IDENTIFY WEEDS John Deere’s AI-targeting spraying technology helps farmers cut costs, fight herbicide resistance, and boost yields—all in one pass. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM PHOTOS: deere.com
15 John Deere’s investment in AI-powered solutions began with its acquisition of Blue River Technology, a pioneer in computer vision for agriculture. See & Spray is the result of that innovation, now scaled across millions of acres in North America. Deere customers have used See & Spray technology to help reduce their non-residual herbicide use by up to two-thirds, saving an estimated 8,000,000 gallons of herbicide solution the company says. Superior for North American Operations What makes See & Spray stand out? • Precision at Scale: Scans thousands of square feet per second, even at high speeds; • Dual-Tank Efficiency: Apply two mixes in one pass—targeted and broadcast—saving time and fuel; • Retrofit Options: Available as factory-installed or precision upgrade kits for existing sprayers, making adoption affordable; • Application Savings Guarantee: Farmers pay only when the system delivers measurable savings, reducing risk. For growers in the United States and Canada, where margins are tight and sustainability goals are rising, the See & Spray Ultimate offers a practical path forward. It’s not just about cutting costs—it’s about smarter farming that protects crops, conserves resources, and boosts profitability. Watch this video to learn more. | pag WATCH THE VIDEO
Today’s AI (artificial intelligence) is helping farmers grow better. And now, it’s helping farmers solve one of their biggest headaches: weeds. Thanks to the efforts of Niqo Robotics, growers in North America now have access to an AI-powered precision weeding robot that promises speed, accuracy, and sustainability. In 2025, Niqo Robotics unveiled its precision weeding robot, capable of performing high-speed spot-spray weeding at up to 4.5 miles (7.2 kph) per hour. This machine uses advanced computer vision and AI algorithms to distinguish weeds from crops with millimeter-level precision, applying targeted sprays only where needed. The result? Reduced chemical use, lower labor costs, and improved crop health. “This launch is not about adding another feature to a robot—it’s about redesigning the rhythm of field operations,” said Jaisimha Rao, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Niqo Robotics. “Weeding is the most time-critical and labor-intensive task in specialty crop farming. By focusing on speed and delivering millimeter-level accuracy, we are helping growers regain control over timing, cost, and consistency.” Why Weeding Needs a Revolution As we are all aware, weeds compete with crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight, cutting into yields and profits. Traditionally, farmers have relied on manual labor or blanket herbicide applications—both of which are costly and increasingly unsustainable. Labor shortages across North America have made hand weeding harder to manage, while herbicide resistance and environmental concerns are pushing growers to seek alternatives. Niqo’s AI-powered robot addresses these challenges head-on. 16 AI-POWERED PRECISION WEEDING COMES TO NORTH AMERICAN FARMS
17 Founded in 2015 as TartanSense and rebranded as Niqo Robotics in 2022, the company has become a global leader in AI-driven agricultural automation. Headquartered in Bengaluru, India, Niqo has raised over $22 million in funding and operates in both Asian and North American markets. Its mission is simple: “To revolutionize agriculture through robotic innovation.” Niqo’s product lineup includes the RoboSpray, an AI-powered selective spraying robot, and the RoboThinner, designed for lettuce thinning and beneficial spraying. Together, these machines have covered more than 160,000 acres worldwide, delivering measurable ROI (return on investment) for growers. The company’s technology is built for real-world farm conditions— rugged, reliable, and adaptable to existing equipment. “Our robots aren’t tech toys; they’re farming technology engineered for the challenges of a real farm,” Rao commented. “Feedback from growers in California and Arizona has been clear: they need systems that are fast, accurate, and flexible enough to handle changing field conditions. That’s exactly what we’ve built—the fastest spot-spray weeder in the field.” By using Niqo Sense, a proprietary artificial intelligence camera system, the robot scans fields in real time, identifies weeds, and activates precision nozzles to spray only where necessary. This “green-on-green” vision system works even in dense foliage, reducing chemical use by up to 45 percent compared to conventional methods. The company calls it a smarter, cleaner way to manage weeds without sacrificing efficiency. The precision weeding robot is designed for specialty crops where timing and accuracy are critical. It can be retrofitted to any tractor and adapted to multiple bed configurations, making it a farm-friendly upgrade rather than a complete overhaul. At full speed, growers can expect ROI in under two seasons, thanks to reduced labor costs and optimized chemical use. With agricultural labor availability declining and production costs rising, robotic platforms are becoming an operational necessity. Niqo’s solution offers a scalable, integrated approach that maintains agronomic precision while maximizing speed and minimizing complexity. Sustainability and Profitability Beyond cost savings, Niqo’s technology supports sustainability goals by reducing chemical runoff and improving soil health. Precision spraying minimizes environmental impact while ensuring crops receive exactly what they need— no more, no less. For growers navigating consumer demand for cleaner produce and stricter regulations on chemical use, this innovation couldn’t come at a better time. As Rao summed up: “What we’re introducing is a new approach to how AI-powered spot spraying can support agriculture.” For growers throughout all of Canada and the United States, that means a future where smart robots handle the toughest jobs, freeing up time and resources for better farm management. | pag Niqo Robotics’ latest innovation promises faster, smarter weed control, helping growers cut costs, reduce chemical use, and tackle labor shortages. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM PHOTO: niqorobotics.com
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has taken a major step into precision agriculture with the creation of Yamaha Agriculture, Inc., a US-based company focused on delivering automation and digital solutions for specialty crop growers. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, the new entity will integrate technologies from two leading agtech innovators: Robotics Plus of New Zealand and The Yield Technology Solutions of Australia. The move follows Yamaha Motor’s acquisition of Robotics Plus, known for its expertise in robotics, automation, sensing, and data analytics. Robotics Plus has developed advanced Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) for spraying and weed control, as well as automated fruit packing systems and robotic log measurement solutions. These innovations position Robotics Plus as a pioneer in mechanizing laborintensive tasks, helping growers overcome workforce shortages and improve operational efficiency. As well, Yamaha Motor purchased assets from The Yield, a company specializing in AI (artificial intelligence)-powered analytics for agriculture. The Yield’s solutions optimize on-farm and off-farm operations, including yield prediction and critical decision support for harvest and spray timing. Yamaha previously collaborated with The Yield under a joint development agreement signed in 2021. By combining these capabilities, Yamaha Agriculture aims to deliver integrated solutions that help growers reduce input costs, optimize resources, and improve sustainability. The company will initially focus on producers of wine grapes, apples, and other specialty crops across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. “This move also aligns with Yamaha Motor’s global technology roadmap, focusing on advanced energy management, intelligent systems, and software-driven solutions. With the launch of this new company, we aim to leverage Yamaha’s technological expertise to contribute to sustainable and profitable farming, using a customer-centric approach,” stated Hajime Aota, Chief Strategy Officer at Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Yamaha’s long-term vision—ART for Human Possibilities—underscores its commitment to “Advance the use of Robotics, Rethink Solution, Transform Mobility.” Agriculture has been identified as a strategic growth field, and Yamaha aims to make it a future core business by driving demand creation through automation and digital transformation. Nolan Paul, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Yamaha Agriculture, Inc., summed up by adding that, “Guided by our mission to ensure growers are sustainable, profitable, and resilient, Yamaha Agriculture recognizes that the challenges facing specialty crop growers require thoughtful solutions that will take time to develop.” | pag 18 PHOTO: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. YAMAHA MOTOR LAUNCHES US PRECISION AGRICULTURE COMPANY Yamaha Motor establishes Yamaha Agriculture to integrate robotics and AI innovations from Australia and New Zealand for sustainable farming solutions. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM
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Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just answering questions about celebrity gossip or helping people write quirky social media posts anymore—it’s out in the fields, transforming agriculture. AI is giving farmers and ag retailers the power to see what’s happening at the leaf level, predict problems before they spread, and make smarter decisions about crop protection and conservation. The latest partnership between Syngenta Crop Protection and Taranis shows just how far this technology has come— and why it’s a game-changer for modern farming. Never heard of the Taranis company before? Taranis is the world’s leading AI-powered crop intelligence platform, serving millions of acres across the United States and Europe. Its proprietary leaf-level imaging and analysis provide agronomic recommendations that accelerate decision-making, simplify management, and enhance profitability. Syngenta and Taranis are joining forces to scale AI-powered crop management solutions across the Midwest, equipping agricultural retailers with tools that promise greater efficiency, improved yields, and new conservation opportunities. “AI is agriculture’s next transformative breakthrough,” said Vern Hawkins, President of Syngenta Crop Protection and regional director of North America. “The results from our 2025 collaboration with Taranis were clear—retailers saw how AI Crop Intelligence, along with our leading crop protection portfolio, created value for both their businesses and growers. This partnership allows us to scale that proven model across the Midwest.” Combining Taranis’ leaf-level AI Crop Intelligence with Syngenta’s extensive crop protection portfolio and agronomic expertise, it allows retailers to monitor fields more effectively, detect issues earlier, and deploy solutions faster. And, by leveraging AI-driven insights, retailers can prioritize high-risk fields, reduce manual scouting time, and streamline operations—ultimately helping growers maximize yield potential. “Throughout 2025, participating retailers reported using Taranis’ AI early detection capabilities combined with Syngenta’s leading crop protection solutions to address field issues sooner, helping maximize yield,” explained Jason Minton, Chief Commercial Officer of Taranis. “Many retailers shared how AI insights enabled them to streamline field operations—focusing on the highest priority fields and reducing manual scouting time—resulting in significant efficiency improvements.” 20 SYNGENTA AND TARANIS FORGE AI PARTNERSHIP The new collaboration between Syngenta Crop Protection and Taranis aims to deliver AI-powered insights and conservation solutions to ag retailers across the Midwest. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM TARANIS GROWER TESTIMONIALS PHOTOS: taranis.com, SMK – stock.adobe.com
21 The next phase of the partnership will roll out in 2026, featuring enhanced capabilities within Taranis’ Ag Assistant, including advanced yield projection algorithms powered by proprietary leaf-level artificial intelligence analysis—technology unmatched in today’s marketplace. Ag retailers are being looked upon more to help deliver precision solutions while managing tight labor resources and rising input costs. By integrating AI insights with crop protection strategies, retailers can offer growers a more proactive, data-driven service model—strengthening customer relationships and creating new revenue streams. “Both companies share the vision of an AI-enabled agronomist of the future,” said Opher Flohr, Chief Executive Officer of Taranis. “By combining Syngenta’s deep agronomic expertise and industry-leading crop protection portfolio with Taranis’ advanced AI capabilities, we’re empowering retailers and growers with timely, actionable insights to help them develop optimal crop management solutions more efficiently than ever before.” Beyond crop intelligence, the partnership also supports conservation initiatives. Taranis launched conservation agronomy programs in 2025, and Syngenta brings strong value chain relationships and geographic reach to expand these efforts. Together, they aim to simplify conservation funding processes for growers, reduce administrative burdens, and create new revenue opportunities tied to sustainability. “We believe ag retailers play a critical role in bringing conservation solutions together for growers,” said Paul Backman, Head of North America Crop Protection Digital Agriculture & Sustainable Solutions. “The powerful capabilities brought together through our partnership with Taranis put us in an excellent position to collaborate with retailers and create value for them as we deliver on this vision.” For the 2026 growing season, retailers can immediately leverage Taranis’ conservation service, which minimizes time and resource demands while helping growers access funding programs. This dual focus—AI-driven crop intelligence and conservation— positions the partnership as a game-changer for modern agriculture. The Syngenta-Taranis alliance represents a significant step toward precision agriculture at scale. By merging advanced AI analytics with proven crop protection strategies, the partnership addresses two critical challenges: improving operational efficiency and meeting sustainability goals. For American growers, this means better tools to manage risk, optimize inputs, and capture new value through conservation programs—all while preparing for an increasingly digital future. For retailers and growers alike, the future of farming is smarter, faster, and more sustainable. | pag TARANIS RETAILER TESTIMONIALS “THROUGHOUT 2025, PARTICIPATING RETAILERS REPORTED USING TARANIS’ AI EARLY DETECTION CAPABILITIES COMBINED WITH SYNGENTA’S LEADING CROP PROTECTION SOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS FIELD ISSUES SOONER, HELPING MAXIMIZE YIELD.”
01 AI Powered Weed Control Research Begins Oregon State University and Ecorobotix begin a multi-year research project to test advanced AI weed targeting tools that aim to improve precision spraying, efficiency, and crop quality. MORE 22 BITS & BYTES 02 Converting RGB Images to Boost Crop Monitoring Researchers developed methods to turn low cost RGB images into multispectral data helping farmers measure crop traits like chemical content and growth status without expensive equipment. MORE 05 Kubota TIM System Enhances Fertilizer Field Precision Kubota’s TIM technology helps tractors and spreaders work together automatically, improving fertilizer accuracy, reducing operator workload, and maintaining top performance in all field conditions. MORE 04 New Satellite Insights for Soil Health A new study shows that satellites can detect changing tillage practices, showing how farmers shift between low and high intensity tillage, improving understanding of soil health and conservation progress for scientists, policy makers, etc. MORE 03 XELA Sensors Boost Precision in Robot Hands XELA Robotics expands its tactile sensor technology with new integrations and smaller, smarter sensing points, offering robots a human-like sense of touch for precise handling across industries. MORE
23 08 AgFiniti Update Simplifies Guidance Line Management for Farmers AgFiniti’s latest update makes guidance line management easier than ever. Farmers can now import, view, organize, and export lines from their phone, while dealers gain remote access for faster support. MORE 07 Boosting Milking Efficiency DeLaval’s new MM100 milk meter combines advanced FreeFlow™ technology with real-time data tracking to help dairy producers improve milking speed, throughput, and herd health. MORE 06 Smokin’ weeds As herbicide resistance spreads and input costs soar, LASCO introduces its Lightning Weeder—a chemical-free, electric solution designed to tackle tough weeds without harming soil health or crop performance. MORE 09 R4 Autonomous Robots New Holland’s R4 concept robots aim to revolutionize specialty crop farming by automating repetitive tasks like mowing and spraying, reducing labor dependency, and delivering sustainable, precision-driven solutions. MORE PHOTO: FluxFactory/E+ via Getty Images 10 AgTech Dominates U.S. Farmer Searches on Google in 2025 According to Google, the top agriculturerelated searches in 2025 reveal a clear picture of where farming is headed: technology-driven solutions and sustainability-focused practices. MORE
Case IH’s Steiger Quadtrac lineup is now up to seven pieces of equipment with the addition of the 785 model. This model and its capabilities represent the future of agriculture, said Mark Burns, product marketing manager for Case IH. “The introduction of the 785 Quadtrac is the next evolution of a higher horsepower model from Case IH,” he told the Farms.com Precision Agriculture Digital Digest. “For those looking for better performance and more productivity especially as we get into implements that require more horsepower.” When compared to the 715, the 785 model is capable of delivering a 10 percent increase in rated and peak horsepower. Maximum engine horsepower on the 715 is 778, for example, while the 785 is capable of 853 maximum horsepower. For another comparison, the 2026 GMC Sierra EV pickup truck maxes out at 760 horsepower. Supporting implement use throughout the 785 is Case IH’s Smart Torque 2.0 hydraulic system. The system features two hydraulic pumps with 113 gallons (427 litres) of flow. 24 CASE IH ADDS TO STEIGER QUADTRAC SERIES The 785 is the most powerful tractor in the Steiger lineup. DIEGO FLAMMINI FARMS.COM
25 Those pumps have sensors that monitor hydraulic flow to maximize the engine’s power. Farmers investing in the 785 or other tractors in the Steiger lineup can choose between one of two technology packages, Core or Advanced. “That starts with the Pro 1200 display,” pointed out Burns. “And on either one of those tech packages you can choose between one or two displays.” The Core package uses AFS 3. “The Core package comes with the Vector Pro receiver with AFS 3 correction level as the base offering,” Burns explained. “But farmers looking for less acccuracy can choose AFS 1 correction if they wish.” The Advanced package uses RTK for guidance to provide exceptional accuracy. That’s for “somebody that’s looking for repeatable subinch passes,” Burns related. The Core package uses Class 2 ISOBUS while Advanced uses Class 2/3. Across both packages farmers can benefit from AccuTurn Pro and AccuSync. AccuTurn Pro not only provides hands-free, automatic and repeatable turns, but it also allows farmers to program the system to raise and lower tools, and change gears based on GPS positioning. AccuSync enables synchronized connectivity among multiple field machines, facilitating real-time sharing of geospatial maps, guidance lines, operational data, and additional agronomic parameters. And FieldOps allows farmers to analyze and manage all the data collected during a season. “It allows for better decision making,” Burns said. “It could be anything from fleet management and making sure we have the vehicles in the right place, to vehicle performance. If we’ve got two operators in the same field and one isn’t getting the same acres as the other, we can go in and see if it’s an equipment problem or a training opportunity.” Connectivity Included is also part of the Steiger 785. This feature is tied to the modem inside the tractor, Burns said. “Every machine is connected and ready to go when delivered to the customer which allows them to be remotely monitored and viewed through FieldOps,” he noted. Farmers looking for more information about the Steiger 785 Quadtrac and its features can visit Case IH’s website or contact a local dealer. | pag PHOTO: Case IH “EVERY MACHINE IS CONNECTED AND READY TO GO WHEN DELIVERED TO THE CUSTOMER WHICH ALLOWS THEM TO BE REMOTELY MONITORED AND VIEWED THROUGH FIELDOPS.”
Precision Ag technology is, thankfully, a constant whirl of activity with companies churning out new and better products to aid the global farming community gain better efficiency. And, when efficiency and quality are paramount, John Deere has once again stepped up to the plate. With the launch of its new F8 and F9 Series selfpropelled forage harvesters. The company’s iconic green-and-yellow brand has delivered a powerful message to forage producers across the country: the future of forage harvesting is here—and it’s smarter, stronger, and more operator-friendly than ever before. Unveiled during the summer this year, the F8 and F9 Series machines are the result of extensive customer feedback and engineering innovation. Designed from the ground up, these harvesters are built to meet the demands of modern dairy and livestock operations, where forage quality directly impacts herd health and profitability. Built for Power, Tuned for Efficiency At the heart of the new series lies a range of engine options tailored to meet diverse operational needs. The F9 Series offers two powerhouse engines—the John Deere 18X and the Liebherr V12 24L—delivering between 700 and 1,020 horsepower. Meanwhile, the F8 Series is equipped with the JD14X engine, offering six horsepower configurations from 425 to 645. But it’s not just about raw power. John Deere’s proprietary HarvestMotion Plus technology optimizes torque at lower RPMs, resulting in up to 15 percent fuel savings and a 10 percent increase in power. Also, with the JD18X engine requiring no DEF (diesel exhaust fluid), farmers can enjoy simplified maintenance and reduced operating costs. For producers managing large acreages or custom operators running long hours, this combination of power and efficiency translates into more acres harvested per day—and more value per gallon of fuel. Smarter Harvesting Through Automation One of the most transformative aspects of the F8 and F9 Series is their integration of intelligent automation. These machines don’t just collect data—they act on it. Ground speed automation adjusts in real-time based on crop conditions, helping maintain optimal load and reducing operator fatigue. The ProTouch Harvest system allows operators to activate multiple harvestready settings with a single button, streamlining operations and minimizing human error. Perhaps most impressive is Active Fill Control, which ensures consistent truck fills even in challenging field conditions. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces spillage and waste—key concerns for any forage operation. “The new automated technologies available on the F8 and F9 Series put precision into action,” stated Bergen Nelson, John Deere’s go-to-market manager for harvesting equipment. “The machine is not just collecting data; it’s using the data to optimize decision-making, helping operators do more— and do it better.” 26 PHOTOS: John Deere POWER, PRECISION, AND PRODUCTIVITY John Deere’s new F8 and F9 Series forage harvesters have been designed to redefine forage quality. ANDREW JOSEPH FARMS.COM
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