Precision Agriculture - University Farm
The FHSU Department of Agriculture is preparing students for careers in precision agriculture. This fast-growing and exciting industry has a high demand for employees with this specialized knowledge. FHSU has recently partnered with Hutchinson Community College (HCC) through a USDA grant aimed at enhancing the technical and analytical skills of students and producers using advanced precision ag technologies. Through this grant, agricultural equipment has been purchased to give the students "hands-on" exposure to the industry. Students from FHSU also make a trip to HCC's Ag Shop to learn more about the "nuts and bolts" of the equipment. This synergistic relationship benefits the students by providing them a well-rounded view of many of the aspects related to precision agriculture.
Recently, the FHSU Department of Agriculture has teamed up with the FHSU Department of Biological Sciences to purchase and use Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technologies in the classroom and a research setting. We are excited to be at the forefront of this new frontier for agriculture.
Dr. Craig Smith (seated) helps an Agricultural Business student understand the economics of investing in precision agriculture equipment.
University Farm crops division manager, Harland Werth (second from right), and a crew of student workers harvest wheat using a combine provided by Carrico Implement.
Mr. Dale Conard, Ag Diesel Instructor at HCC, gives an overview of grain monitoring systems in combines.
Tom Nichol from Ag Eagle, LLC demonstrates their UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) for the Technology in Agriculture class.
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