Farm technology is evolving faster and faster with innovative inputs, new equipment and new data-informed insights for managing your soybean fields. This September issue of Illinois Field & Bean is all about that change and how ag keeps getting smarter. We’re taking a closer look at some of the biggest changes, such as improved connectivity and smarter ways to manage your farm data, all while keeping that data safe and private.

Smart Technology and AI

Illinois soybean farmers know better than anyone that technology upgrades are necessary for smart business. In your own fields, you’re using it every day, whether it’s your tractors, field sensors or seed genetics. Technology is changing how we plant, harvest and make decisions. It’s helping us drive production gains, boost efficiency and better manage our farms for the long run.

The idea of AI implementation can sound intimidating. But in truth it’s becoming a practical tool for Illinois agriculture. In its simplest terms, AI is about computers, sensors and other data-generating devices that help us sort through mountains of information. It could be software that helps you pick the best time to plant or apply inputs, or a tractor or agricultural drone that knows your field and makes spot adjustments on the go.

This month’s cover story on pages 6-9 takes a deep dive into how farm equipment companies are putting AI to work.

Farm Data: From Collection to Decisions

With new tech comes more data. Every growing season, you’re gathering numbers on yield, inputs, storage and more. But what do you do with it all? In a story highlighting data management strategies on pages 14-17, we lay out best practices for putting all that information to work for you, making sure it is helping you plan, save money and improve your operation over time.

Another story on pages 10-13 explores how NASA scientists are using satellite technology to monitor crop conditions and help you make informed production decisions. It’s another example of how the future of soybean farming is being shaped by new ways of looking at our land from hundreds of miles above.

On a more down-to-earth level, drones are quickly becoming a must-have tool. In “Eyes in the Sky,” ISA Vice Chairman Brady Holst shares how drones are changing the way he manages his farm, from scouting fields and applying fertilizer to keeping an eye on crop health more efficiently than ever before.

Meet Your New Illinois Soybean Board Leaders

Change is about more than advances in technology, and ISA leadership is no exception. I’m proud to introduce the newest faces of leadership on the Illinois Soybean Board of Directors:

• Chairman, Bryan Severs, District 7 Director
• Vice Chairman, Brady Holst, At-Large Director
• Treasurer, Tim Scates, At-Large Director
• Secretary, Scott Gaffner, At-Large Director
• Assistant Secretary/Treasurer, Jeff O’Connor, At-Large Director
• Government Relations Committee Chair, Rob Shaffer, District 6 Director
• Market Development Committee Chair, Brock Willard, District 12 Director
• Soybean Production Committee Chair, Heath Houck, District 13 Director

We are thrilled to welcome new Board Directors Weston Olson, District 4; and Tim Clark, District 8.

These leaders bring fresh energy, strong voices and a deep commitment to Illinois agriculture. Just like the Board Directors who served before them, all of these leaders understand that growing soybeans in Illinois is about staying informed and staying ahead of the trends, standing up for our farms and supporting one another.

Thank you for everything you do, day in and day out. If you ever have questions, ideas or a perspective to share, please reach out to me directly at john.lumpe@ilsoy.org. My door is always open, and my time is always yours.