What do new technologies mean for farmers?

It's safe to say that computer science is an integral part of the global economy. Precision agriculture (PA), cattle tracking systems and other technologies are contributing to the evolution of the farming industry.

If the manner in which the average agriculturalist conducts business is transforming, it's reasonable to assume that farm insurance plans will change in kind. What's on the horizon for agricultural technology, and what does it mean for farmers?

Planting sensors

The Society of Precision Agriculture Australia (SPAA) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to encouraging adoption of PA among the nation's farmers. Members primarily consist of crop growers, as well as equipment producers, researchers and contractors.

A recent initiative spearheaded by the SPAA instructs farmers on how to use a combination of soil monitors and sensors. The organisation asserted that increased usage of this technology will ultimately lead to more sophisticated land management practices, essentially making agriculture operations more sustainable.

What if these sensors were to become damaged? How would farmers be able to pay to have these assets fixed or replaced? Would they be able to handle such tasks on their own or hire external assistance?

In their own hands

According to a 2012 report conducted by the National Farmers' Federation, only 4 per cent of Australia's total agricultural income came from government support. This means farmers are largely looking after their own financial interest without public intervention.

This self-reliance likely carries over to equipment maintenance and repair. Learning how to fix broken machinery and make spare parts in-house are skills often passed down from one generation to the next.

But will this be the case when technological assets are heavily integrated into daily farming activities?

Will manufacturers of sensors, onboard computers and other such systems provide training to farmers interested in using them? If these devices are damaged, will they be able to pay for repair? Can certain insurance schemes supplement these costs?

These and other questions will have to be addressed soon.