Digital Tools Impact in Idaho's Agricultural Sector
GrantID: 56665
Grant Funding Amount Low: $300,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $1,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Target Outcomes for Idaho's Agricultural Sector
This initiative aims to implement digital data management tools for Idaho's agricultural professionals, focusing specifically on improving efficiency in crop reporting. The state's rich agricultural landscape, characterized by its diverse crop production ranging from potatoes to wheat, necessitates effective data management practices. By integrating advanced cyberinfrastructure into agricultural education, the initiative seeks to enhance the capabilities of both undergraduate and graduate students in dealing with agricultural data efficiently, ultimately paving the way for smarter farming practices.
Improving outcomes in crop yield documentation and regulatory compliance is crucial in Idaho. The agricultural sector contributes significantly to the state's economy, with over 25,000 farms covering approximately 11 million acres. However, many farmers struggle with outdated reporting methods and lack comprehensive training on utilizing digital tools for data management. This initiative targets these gaps, ensuring that Idaho's agricultural professionals can meet regulatory requirements and optimize yields through accurate data management practices.
The implementation approach consists of hands-on training sessions, workshops, and resource distribution that focus on the specific needs of Idaho's farmers. By providing tailored educational programs, the initiative will empower the agricultural community to adopt modern data management techniques. Success will be quantitatively measured through improved documentation of crop yields and enhanced compliance with state and federal regulations. This approach recognizes Idaho’s unique agricultural demands, integrating cyberinfrastructure into the very fabric of agricultural education, thus setting the stage for future advancements in agri-tech.
Unique Challenges for Idaho's Agriculture
The agricultural landscape in Idaho faces certain unique challenges that necessitate a strategic focus on improving cyberinfrastructure. Idaho's wide-ranging geographyfrom its mountainous northern regions to its expansive flat plains in the southcan create varying needs in terms of data management literacy, depending on the crop type and location. Due to the state's substantial reliance on agriculture for its economy, with an estimated $5 billion from crop sales in 2021, it is imperative that farmers are equipped with the necessary skills to manage their data effectively.
Additionally, Idaho ranks as one of the top producers of several crops, creating a strong need for accurate data management to maximize yield and ensure compliance with agricultural regulations. However, many ranchers and farmers often lack the technological resources or digital literacy necessary to utilize advanced cyberinfrastructure effectively. This educational initiative addresses these gaps, aiming to uplift the agricultural workforce and enhance its capabilities in managing increasing volumes of data.
Overall, implementing a focused program on digital data management not only ensures compliance and optimizes production but also fosters a culture of innovation among the agricultural community in Idaho, setting a sustainable path forward for future generations. By investing in the training and integration of cyberinfrastructure into agricultural sectors, Idaho can position itself as a leader in agricultural advancement.
By addressing these specific state challenges through the grant's intended outcomes, the initiative is uniquely aligned with Idaho's economic priorities and its agricultural heritage.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
