Stabenow Urges Tangible Benefits From AI in Agriculture
Senator Stabenow emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies should offer tangible benefits to growers without overshadowing existing production-boosting technologies at a Senate Ag Committee hearing titled “Innovation in American Agriculture: Leveraging Technology and Artificial Intelligence.” She expressed concerns the attention given to AI might divert resources from readily available technologies accessible to growers. Stabenow also raised questions about whether the companies developing AI solutions could potentially control the supply of recommended fertilizers and seeds, leading to conflicts of interest.
Witnesses at the hearing acknowledged the benefits of new technologies, including increased crop yields and reduced waste, but stressed the importance of providing clear benefits to growers. They emphasized that technology products must offer practical solutions to address the challenges faced by farmers and should be deployed thoughtfully and responsibly.
The hearing follows President Joe Biden’s executive order on AI, which requires developers to share safety test results and other critical data with the federal government. The order also directs cabinet agencies, including the Agriculture secretary, to provide guidance on the use of AI and algorithms in government services.
Jahmy Hindman, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for Deere & Co., supported legislative proposals to broaden eligibility for USDA conservation and loan programs, encouraging more growers to adopt technology-driven products. He emphasized the importance of incentives for increasing growers’ productivity and profitability, which would contribute to meeting the needs of the growing world population. Hindman urged the committee to consider including these bills in the next five-year farm bill reauthorization, expected in 2024.
Privacy concerns regarding growers’ data were also discussed during the hearing, with Stabenow highlighting the need to protect growers’ data privacy while harnessing the benefits of AI and precision agriculture tools.
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