AgTech360

Dr. Jason White from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station explains how nano-scale materials, once seen as potential hazards, are gaining popularity and are now used to boost plant health, increase crop yields, and build climate resilience.  He discusses global collaborations, regulatory landscapes, and promising work using nano-nutrients to prepare crops for future stress. Learn how precision delivery through nanotech could reshape sustainable farming. 

Dr. Khara Grieger explores the fascinating world of nanotechnology in agriculture. From nanoscale fertilizers and pesticides to vaccines and biosensors, she explains how these tiny particles could have a big impact on sustainability, food safety, and animal health. The conversation also dives into public perception of nanotech, the challenges of assessing risk, and what’s needed to responsibly scale these innovations for real-world use. 

Dr. Pam Marrone is a pioneering force in biologicals and sustainable agriculture. Explore how the integration of biocontrols and biostimulants is reshaping farming by boosting crop yields while minimizing the environmental footprint of traditional agricultural practices. Through her groundbreaking commercial biological solutions, Dr. Marrone has equipped farmers with the tools to embrace more sustainable, profitable practices that benefit both their farms and the environment. Discover the transformative potential of biologicals and their pivotal role in the future of sustainable agriculture. 

Dr. Jean Ristaino discusses how her groundbreaking research has revolutionized plant disease detection and management. Using cutting-edge genomic sequencing and real-time surveillance tools, she has traced the origins of devastating pathogens, helped growers combat crop diseases more effectively, and shaped global strategies for plant health. Discover how her work has not only advanced scientific understanding but also provided critical solutions for food security and sustainable agriculture worldwide. 

Dr. Monika Paule, CEO of Caszyme, explores the potential of gene editing in agriculture. She delves into the evolution of CRISPR technology and its role in addressing issues such as food scarcity and climate change. Monika also highlights how gene editing can preserve traditional crops, enhance sustainability, and shape the future of food production. 

Dr. Jack Wang, associate professor at NC State and co-founder of Tree Co, Inc., shares how CRISPR technology and machine learning are revolutionizing forestry. Dr. Wang discusses how gene editing can address global challenges like climate change and sustainability. His research focuses on improving tree resilience to pests, enhancing growth rates, and developing healthier forests by leveraging CRISPR and machine learning to create faster, more robust solutions. 

The N.C. PSI Makerspace fosters collaboration and rapid prototyping, bringing together researchers, engineers, and partners to develop practical solutions for growers. Andrea Monteza, Makerspace Director, explains how this one-of-a-kind lab plays a crucial role in advancing the mission of N.C. PSI through innovation and collaboration. Go behind the scenes with us, exploring how ideas quickly evolve into field-ready prototypes through fast testing and real-world application. Discover how this dynamic environment is driving breakthroughs in agriculture and empowering farmers to address today's most pressing challenges. 

Anders Brevik, CEO of Kilter, discusses how AI and robotics are reshaping agriculture to help farmers overcome critical challenges like labor shortages and environmental sustainability. He reveals how Kilter’s innovative new product combines AI with advanced nozzle technology to deliver precise herbicide application, dramatically improving selectivity and minimizing chemical use. Tune in to discover how these cutting-edge technologies are driving the future of more efficient and sustainable farming. 

Dr. Emmanuel Torres Quezada, researcher at the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative, explores the unique challenges faced by specialty crop farmers and the importance of focusing research on these high-value, high-return crops. He discusses how in-field robotics can help automate tasks like staking, decrease labor costs, and enhance sustainability, ultimately making fresh produce more accessible and affordable for consumers. 

Jon Giebel from Indigo Ag discusses the role of biological seed treatments in sustainable agriculture. He explains how these living microbes can reduce carbon intensity and improve crop yields. John also introduces the CLIPS system,  an innovative technology designed to streamline the use of biologicals on the farm. This system stabilizes and facilitates the use of microbial treatments at planting time making them a more feasible option for large-scale farming operations. 

Dr. Chris Jones, a research scholar at NC State's Center for Geospatial Analytics shares insights on the use of landscape simulation models and their evolving role in agriculture. Learn how Chris creates models to track and predict pest and pathogen spread using tools like satellite imagery and survey data. By leveraging several data sources landscape modeling helps limit crop loss and improve resource allocation with more accurate predictive modeling.

Actionable insights from vast data and imagery sets are empowering growers to make more informed decisions. Advanced technologies now enable real-time monitoring of large, dispersed farms, significantly improving both decision-making and crop management. Tim Hassinger, CEO of Intelinair, shares how their AGMRI platform harnesses multiple imagery sources and open data to deliver precise, field-level insights. Tune in to explore the future of precision agriculture and discover how AI-driven innovations are transforming farming into a more efficient, data-powered industry. 

Peter Wren-Hilton, founder of agritech consultancy Wharf42, shares insights into his latest initiative, Platform 10, which is exploring the integration of biologicals into sustainable farming. Discover how biocontrols and biostimulants are revolutionizing agriculture as global regulatory trends push for more biological solutions in the field. Learn more about the growing adoption of these groundbreaking approaches and their potential to boost crop yields while advancing environmental sustainability. 

Dr. Mallory Choudoir, Assistant Professor & Soil Microbiome Extension Specialist,  discusses the impacts biologicals have on agriculture. Discover how tiny beneficial microbes are playing a big role in enhancing crop health, boosting productivity, and promoting sustainable farming practices. Listen along as we dive into real-world applications of bio-stimulants and highlight the significant benefits they offer to both growers and consumers.

Claire Delaunay, CTO and COO of Farm-NG, shares her insights on the future of farming robotics. Claire reveals how advanced robotics are set to transform agriculture, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Join us for an insightful discussion about this evolving technology and it's imminent impacts on field management practices.

Dr. Chris Reberg-Horton, Platform Director for Resilient Agricultural Systems in the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative shares insights about the advancements in robotics and sensor technology in agriculture. Discover how these innovations are being applied in specialty crops, what roles AI and machine learning have in enhancing farm operations, and how farms are leveraging autonomous farming equipment. Dr. Reberg-Horton also discusses current research projects and the potential for these technologies to revolutionize farming practices and address labor challenges. 

Discover how Dr. Dani Jones, a researcher at NC State, harnesses data analytics to improve agriculture practices. From enhancing sweet potato production to pioneering sustainable biofuels, Dani leverages data-driven insights to drive agricultural sustainability forward. She also leads NC State's Agricultural Data Science Certificate program, sharing her knowledge with traditional learners and industry professionals. Join us as we delve into the transformative impact of data analytics in agriculture.

Dan Maycock, Vice President of CropTrak and a visiting researcher at NC State discusses the impact of data collection and artificial intelligence on agriculture. Dan shares insights into how modern data analytics and AI tools are empowering farmers to make faster, more informed decisions, transforming everything from field management to post-harvest processes. Tune in to discover how these cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of farming, making data more accessible and actionable for growers around the world.

Byran Fuhrmann, Aquatic Technology Development Scientist at SePRO Corporation discusses the delicate balance between leveraging phosphorus use in agriculture for optimal benefits while also prioritizing the protection of water systems. Furhmann shares insights into sustainable practices and innovative technologies aimed at minimizing phosphorus runoff and its impact on water quality. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions surrounding phosphorus management in agriculture and the importance of responsible stewardship for long-term environmental sustainability.

Phosphorus plays a critical role in agriculture and the environment. Jacob Jones, Director of the Science and Technologies for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) Center, and Materials Science and Engineering Professor, discusses phosphorus sustainability. Learn about the significance of phosphorus for life processes, challenges associated with its overuse, and the development of absorbent technologies to recover and reuse phosphorus efficiently. Jacob also shares his insights on best management practices in agriculture and the collaborative efforts between universities, researchers, and growers to address environmental concerns related to phosphorus runoff.

 Yara's Senior Vice President of Global Innovation, Rejane Souza, shares insights on the world of soil health and sustainable agriculture. Explore the complexities of fertilizer production, digital farming tools, and emerging trends like green fertilizers and biologicals, shaping the future of agriculture.

Dr. Luke Gatiboni, Extension Soil Fertility Specialist and Associate Professor at NC State, shares his expertise on fertilizers and soil health. His research focuses on uncovering the elusive balance of soil nutrients critical for boosting yields. Dr. Gatiboni helps farmers identify the "unique recipes" needed for different soil types and  agricultural situations. Furthermore, he delves into strategies for minimizing environmental impacts associated with fertilizer use. Join us as we explore the intricate world of soil health and sustainable agriculture with Dr. Luke Gatiboni.

Kathryn Polkoff, co-founder and CEO of Hoofprint Biome, shares the remarkable journey of developing a pioneering product designed to combat climate change and enhance bovine health simultaneously. Tune in to discover how their innovative probiotic solution reduces methane emissions from cow burps. Polkoff is driving agricultural sustainability and innovation - and encouraging other young female scientists to do the same!

Founded by a team of visionary women, FA Bio is dedicated to identifying sustainable agriculture solutions. They have created a new microbial discovery platform to assist with developing agricultural bioproducts. Their innovative approaches stretch beyond the lab to inclusive hiring practices that attract a diverse workforce. Discover the experiences that led these women to pioneer new technologies and their secret to attracting top talent. 

Rusty Barr from Barr Evergreens talks about advances in technology that have improved Christmas tree seedling production and helped unlock secrets to accelerating growth. Learn how his family business is crafting the perfect holiday centerpiece from root to tip by introducing new science to the old orchard. 

Dr. Justin Whitehill explains how his lab is helping create a more resilient and desirable Christmas tree. He shares insights on combating root rot, thwarting insect pests, and outsmarting browsing deer. With nearly four decades of tree breeding and genetic improvement research to build on, Dr. Whitehill and his team collaborate with growers to enhance evergreens.

Thomas Joyner, President of Nash Produce, shares how using Sweet-APPS technology boosts profitability and yields by taking pictures of their full storage bins. Joyner explains how sharing timely information with growers about their recent harvests is a win-win for everyone.

NC State researcher and professor, Dr. Mike Kudenov, delves into the intersection of engineering, agriculture and relationships. As an engineer, he looks at agriculture with a different perspective, modifying tools like sensors for use on the farm. Kudenov works closely with sweet potato producers in NC to leverage new technologies and create a more efficient food production system. 

Ed Fuches, CEO and Founder of FOLIUM Science, talks about microbial resistance and the challenges facing the food value chain. Fortunately, a new solution to combat harmful bacteria has been discovered. Fuches explains how their natural alternative to typical treatments more rapidly identifies and terminates harmful microbes.

https://foliumscience.com/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/folium-science/

Twitter: @FoliumScience

Adrian Percy speaks with Sid Thakur, a Professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Executive Director of Global One Health Academy at NC State. Thakur says, “pathogens don’t respect international boundaries.” Several technologies have emerged to help with the identification and tracking of foodborne pathogens. Advances in genomics, data tracking, reporting infrastructure and interdisciplinary research all contribute to keeping our population healthy.

Matej Stefancic, CEO of Trapview, engaged a multidisciplinary team of agronomists, IT experts and data scientists to develop a unique pest management tool. New solutions for pest monitoring and forecasting allow growers to make real-time decisions. Trials done on apple orchards in the U.S. have already proven beneficial.

trapview.com

We kick off a new season with apple expert Dr. Tom Kon from NC State's Department of Horticultural Science. During peak harvest season, Dr. Kon reflects on the different variables affecting production, and the new technologies being utilized in orchards to maximize yields. His unique connections with the orchards in the Southeast allow nearly half of his research to be done directly on working farms. 

On the last episode of this season of AgTech360, host Adrian Percy is joined by Han Chen, CEO and co-founder of ZeaKal. They discuss the challenges facing the volume-first row crop industry as well as opportunities to improve its nutrition and sustainability.  ZeaKal is using its photosynthesis-enhancing crop technology to reharmonize the supply chain by building customized solutions, half a million acres at a time.

Adrian Percy is joined by Phil Taylor, Director of Innovation and Outreach for Bayer Crop Science, to talk about open innovation. Even with the largest R&D organization in the industry, Bayer recognizes it cannot achieve its goals and address complex agricultural challenges without open innovation with partners of all types and scale. Taylor presents Bayer's model for open innovation and explores how different models can be applied across industries and disciplines.

Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) epitomizes AgTech and the future of agriculture. Ricardo Hernandez, Director of the CEA Coalition at NC State, joins host Adrian Percy to discuss CEA, present its challenges and highlight its possibilities. Hernandez details the varied spectrum of CEA, from greenhouse tomatoes to vertical farming, as well as its place in the food supply chain.

Adrian Percy sits down with Charles Hall, Executive Director of the NC Soybean Producers Association, to discuss marketing soybeans to the animal industry and where AI and drones fit into the commodity group's goals.

Rachel Vann, a soybean Extension specialist and N.C. PSI platform director, demystifies North Carolina's extension program and discusses its critical role in bringing technology to soybean growers across the country.

Correction: The Morrill Act was established in 1862.

Adrian Percy sits down with NC State professor and Extension specialist, Katie Jennings to discuss the biology behind why certain weeds give farmers such a hard time and what her research program is doing to help. Jennings takes us through the limitations and options, from traditional methods like hand-weeding and herbicides to nascent technologies like electrocution, bioherbicides, and robots.

For previous episodes from industry perspectives on weed control, check out the first two episodes of season 3!

NC State Extension Specialist David Suchoff gives us a glimpse into the future of alternative crops in North Carolina. From hemp and sesame to sunflowers and flax, Suchoff's research takes market demand and farmer concerns into consideration as he investigates crops that can help farmers reduce economic volatility, adapt to climate change, and respond to shifts in consumer demand.

Episode 20: A Look into Alternative Crops with David Suchoff

NC State Extension Specialist David Suchoff gives us a glimpse into the future of alternative crops in North Carolina. From hemp and sesame to sunflowers and flax, Suchoff's research takes market demand and farmer concerns into consideration as he investigates crops that can help farmers reduce economic volatility, adapt to climate change, and respond to shifts in consumer demand.

AgTech 360 is brought to you by North Carolina State University, including: