Agricultural technology focuses on turning weather data into actionable farm insights

Agricultural experts are emphasizing the importance of converting raw weather and climate data into actionable intelligence to help farmers manage risks. In Ohio, the Ohio Mesonet is expanding its network of weather stations to provide real-time information on temperature, humidity, and soil conditions. Aaron Wilson of Ohio State University Extension noted that this data helps producers monitor drought conditions and prevent issues like spray drift. The long-term objective for the Ohio Mesonet is to establish a weather station in every one of the state's 88 counties.

On a broader scale, industry professionals argue that the current abundance of data has not yet reached its full potential for risk reduction. Janet Lawless of InteliGro stated that while growers cannot control weather or commodity prices, they can control decision-making through credible intelligence. This approach involves turning data into practical tools for planting, disease management, and nutrition. Efforts to increase global data access include projects such as Pessl Instruments’ initiative to install 100,000 weather stations in Africa.