Empowering WOMEN to be better informed and skilled partners through networks.
While the term “remote sensing technology” may seem difficult to understand, this method of gathering information is straightforward, saves time, and is part of some very familiar practices. In the most basic sense, “remote sensing” is the process of gathering information about an object or process without making physical contact. For example, conventional radar has been used for decades to monitor air traffic. Doppler radar is used by law enforcement officials to monitor speed and by meteorologists to measure weather.
Most crops can utilize about 2.5–3 feet of soil profile to extract moisture. This gives a growing plant about 2.5–3.5 inches of available water to carry it without additional rainfall. Emerging crops use very little moisture early in the season, and a good profile of moisture will carry these plants for about a month without supplemental moisture.
Biotechnology can be as simple as developing plant hybrids and as complex as genetic engineering. A combination of “biology” and “technology,” biotechnology uses living systems and organisms to create or modify products or processes. Commonly understood examples include the development of plant-based medicines and the selective breeding of plants or animals for specific traits. Less understood types of biotechnology include genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and mapping genomes.
Without advancements in agricultural engineering, farmers might still be scattering seed by hand. From the earliest plows to today’s high-tech tractors—not to mention all of the advancements that increased crop productivity—agricultural engineers have solved a variety of problems with ingenious solutions. MSU scientists address Mississippi growers’ challenges with practical solutions.
Mississippi’s producers know it takes more than growing a crop through to harvest to have a successful business. They must calculate risk, understand state and federal regulations, manage resources wisely, and be able to analyze growing amounts of data. Agricultural economists with the MSU Extension Service provide free tools farmers can use to determine break-even costs. They also keep Extension clients informed about commodity price fluctuations and offer insight into navigating the complexities of the Farm Bill.
Agricultural tourism can benefit Mississippi’s farmers, landowners, and community members. Specifically, agri-tourism can positively impact education, agriculture, income, and employment.
Agritourism and Local Foods Lunch Break Webinars
Mississippi Agricultural Businesses
Agricultural businesses have unique considerations related to their locations, neighbors, land, farming practices, scale, and economies. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of federal legislation or learning how to harness the power of the online marketplace, business owners of all types can rely on the MSU Extension Service to provide reliable, science-based information to help them make sound decisions.
As the world has become increasingly complex, so has the process of farming. Constant technological developments, from precision agriculture to soil moisture meters, keep Mississippi producers competitive. The MSU Extension Service supports Mississippi growers by offering: economic analysis and tools; education related to farming practices, such as irrigation and farm safety; and advances in engineering and technology to make producers more efficient.
Technology changes so quickly—who can keep up? While technology is transforming our lives, it doesn’t have to be intimidating! Help with all of the latest gadgets, gizmos, and great ways to connect with loved ones can be found at the county Extension office and online through the MSU Extension Service. Workshops on a variety of technology-related topics, from basic software programs to how to use social media to promote your business, are available throughout the state.