Like many industries, agriculture has seen a huge increase in technology applications in the past decade. Integrated precision agriculture utilizes technology developments surrounding production agriculture to help farmers become more efficient by reducing costs and increasing yields. 

At one time, GPS-guided self-driving tractors seemed like science fiction, but they are now a reality across much of the United States’ agriculture industry. In addition, advancements in drone technology has allowed affordable drones to be adopted in agriculture for multiple uses such as looking at crop health, monitoring livestock and irrigation, improving 
spraying accuracy, and mapping property. 

Current technology like variable rate irrigation — applying water at various depths across a field to address conditions — was developed at the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in the early 2000s.

Ongoing research in the state involves robotics, sensors, and drones — giving growers a better understanding of crop conditions. The Center is working with industry leaders to bring Georgia’s growers to the most advanced technological front.

The Center of Innovation helps Georgia’s businesses capitalize on the challenges and opportunities in agriculture with the following services.

• Assists businesses of all sizes in overcoming internal or external challenges and pursuing new opportunities.
• Provides technical assistance by connecting businesses to research, industry information, and resources such as business loans and grants.