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Tech can improve profitability in ag, but broadband access is needed

The SVP and chief technology officer of Land O’Lakes says it will be critical for farmers to adopt technology to improve profitability and sustainability in the future.

But, Teddy Bekele says rural broadband continues to be a limiting factor for many when it comes to adopting these practices.

“One of the first issues that come up is that they have either no connectivity or poor connectivity and when we talk about investing in new technologies they say they won’t be able to use them on their farm,” he says. “We have to over come that issue before we can deploy some of these really cool and interesting technologies.”

He tells Brownfield public-private partnerships are helping expand access to broadband.  

“Even some of the carriers have said if we can partner up with public agencies and they can help us stand up some of these towers, then it becomes a little more achievable for us to be able to set up the service,” he says.

Bekele says Land O’ Lakes is implementing technologies to help growers be more profitable and sustainable. 

Audio: Teddy Bekele, Land O’Lakes