The Ohio State University (OSU) received $125,000 in grant funding from the Ohio Department of Development to help establish high-speed internet connectivity to Ohio State’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) Molly Caren Agricultural Center in London, Ohio. The center will be used as a demonstration area and proving grounds for autonomous farming equipment.
“We know broadband access is important to all industries, and this initiative will have far-reaching implications for our farming communities which have always played such a vital role in our state’s economy,” said Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted.
“By providing an internet-connected site for testing new autonomous farming equipment, we will be able to better learn how we can create more efficient farming practices which will lead to increased productivity and reduced operational costs,” Husted added. “As we embrace the capabilities of precision farming technology, we are poised to enhance the competitiveness of Ohio’s agricultural sector on a global scale.”
OSU said it is confident that the project will generate valuable insights into the effectiveness of semi- and fully-autonomous farming equipment that will help shape the future of agriculture. The university added that the project also aims to serve as a model for other states, highlighting the potential for this technology to increase efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance overall productivity in the agricultural sector.
“As we continue through the digital agriculture revolution, reliable broadband is critical,” said Cathann A. Kress, Ohio State vice president of agricultural administration and CFAES dean. “We are grateful to BroadbandOhio for this investment, which will amplify our college’s research and delivery of cutting-edge technologies and practices to Ohio’s producers and agribusinesses through Ohio State University Extension.”
