North Dakota Invests in Autonomous Agriculture through $7 Million Grant

By Jeff Beach

In a significant push towards enhancing agricultural technology, North Dakota has allocated $7 million to support Grand Farm, an initiative focused on research and development in robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous agricultural technology. The funding aims to solidify North Dakota’s position as a leader in agricultural innovation.

Building Infrastructure for Future Innovations

Greg Tehven, the chair of the Grand Farm board, emphasized the importance of developing the facilities and infrastructure on the research campus located west of Casselton. “This investment allows us to better test technologies tailored for farmers, engage more partners, and facilitate an array of on-site trials,” Tehven stated.

Funding Through the Autonomous Agriculture Grant Program

The funding originates from the Commerce Department’s Autonomous Agriculture Grant Program, which was established when the state legislature approved $10 million in federal funds in 2021. Notably, Grand Farm emerged as the sole recipient during this funding round, utilizing previous grants to establish a 25,000-square-foot Innovation Shop to foster agri-tech advancements.

Expansive Opportunities and Collaboration

This year, $7.5 million was made available, attracting 16 applications. In addition to the Grand Farm funding, the Commerce Department awarded $500,000 to Kansas-based Greenfield Robotics, a company specializing in robotic solutions for weeding without herbicides. Greenfield Robotics has already taken part in demonstrations at Grand Farm, showcasing its innovative approach.

Components of Autonomous Farming

Some key elements of autonomous agriculture include robotic weeding, drone usage, and data integration from soil sensors supported by artificial intelligence. The state has also funded programs aimed at utilizing drones for weed scouting. Tehven expressed optimism about the growing use of AI solutions, advocating for efficiency and safety in agricultural practices.

Driving Agricultural Innovation

Miki Miheguli, director of agronomy and research at the North Dakota Soybean Council, highlighted the strategic investments’ role in driving technology development. “From field-scale research to infrastructure enabling commercialization, these investments ensure North Dakota remains a frontrunner in agricultural innovation,” Miheguli noted.

Fostering Industry Partnerships

Tehven confirmed that Grand Farm has engaged about 80 partners from the agriculture sector, including major names like AGCO and North Dakota State University. He added that strengthening the facility will help grow industry collaborations and investments, further enhancing research activities within the region.

“This move is crucial for attracting company investments and deepening research initiatives right here in our backyard,” Tehven concluded.

North Dakota Monitor Deputy Editor Jeff Beach can be reached at jeff.beach@example.com.

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