CFAES Impact: July/August 2025
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Keeping farm data safe, avoiding legal risks
Modern agriculture is now powered by more than just machinery; it’s driven by data. And that data, collected through precision farming tools, has real value.
“Farm data can inform important farm decisions about fertilizer use, seed placement, and field performance,” said John Fulton, a professor in the CFAES Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering. “Used properly, it can reduce costs, improve yields, and increase efficiencies.
“Instead of managing entire fields uniformly, farmers can now manage different zones within a field based on productivity. For example, they might apply more fertilizer in high-producing areas and less in low-producing ones. This subfield-level management helps improve efficiency, reduce waste, cut costs, and in many cases, boost yield.”
But with the benefits come legal risks.
As more farmers rely on cloud-based platforms from agricultural technology providers to store yield data, field maps, and machine diagnostics, questions around data ownership, sharing, and security are becoming urgent.
Access to historical data is also crucial, as some consultants might request three or more years of yield or input data to provide the best recommendations.
“That’s why it’s important for farmers not only to rely on technology companies for data storage, but also to back up their own data,” Fulton said. “Ensuring that data is securely stored and accessible means they can continue to make informed decisions year after year.”
“Farmers should understand who has access to their data and how it’s being used. Most platforms have agreements, and it’s important to read the fine print.”
Companies frequently collect performance data from machinery to improve product design, while agronomic data typically remains in the farmer’s control. However, farmers could unknowingly grant third-party access if they skip reviewing user agreements. That could pose legal or competitive risks.
To help safeguard their operations, Fulton offers three key tips:
1. Understand your data agreements. Know who owns your data and what companies can do with it. Choose platforms that align with your values and goals.
2. Control access. Share data only with trusted advisors. Set permissions carefully to ensure only intended partners can view or use your information.
3. Back it up. Don’t rely solely on cloud storage. Keep a secure, local copy of important records such as yield history and planting maps.
“With the rise in cyber threats, protecting your farm data is just as important as protecting your crops,” Fulton said. “Data isn’t just a tool; it’s an asset.”
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Protecting farm assets from long-term care costs
What happens to the farm if a family member needs nursing home care? For some farm families, the answer could mean selling off land or equipment to cover rising longterm care costs —now topping $100,000 per year.
“These expenses are not optional,” said Robert Moore, attorney and research specialist with CFAES. “If someone needs nursing home care, those costs must be paid — and they require cash.”
Unlike other farm expenses, which can be delayed or reduced, long-term care costs are fixed and immediate. For families with limited cash reserves, these costs can quickly lead to the liquidation of land or equipment.
“Most farms are land-rich and cash-poor,” Moore said. “Once cash runs out, the next option to pay for care is selling farm assets.”
That’s why Moore, who contributes to OSU Extension’s Farm Office, recommends families assess their long-term care risk before costs arise.
“The first step is understanding how vulnerable your farm is,” he said. “Some families have enough income to cover care. Others, with modest income or savings, might need to take more aggressive steps to protect their operation.”
Planning in advance is critical. Medicaid rules typically limit the ability to transfer assets within five years of entering a nursing home. Without early planning, options to protect the farm could be limited.
“Waiting until someone needs care will significantly reduce the options available,” Moore said. “Long-term care planning generally needs to happen years before care is needed.”
For families hoping to pass their farms to the next generation, this kind of planning can help ensure a smoother transition and reduce the risk of asset loss, he said.
Moore offers four tips for managing long-term care risks:
1. Evaluate your risk. Understand your income and how quickly long-term care costs could affect your farm.
2. Plan early. Strategies are more effective when implemented years in advance.
3. Consider legal tools. In some cases, tools such as irrevocable trusts could help protect assets.
4. Consult a professional. Work with an attorney or advisor experienced in long-term care and farm succession.“Every farm situation is different,” Moore said. “There’s no one-sizefits-all strategy, but the key is to not wait.”
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New leadership in policy
Meet Associate Professor Gabriel Lade, Ohio State’s new C. William Swank Chair in Rural and Urban Policy. An expert in environmental economics, land use, and rural water quality, Lade brings nationally recognized research and a passion for real-world impact to the role — advancing smart policy at the intersection of agriculture, environment, and community.
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Explore innovation at Farm Science Review
We are “Transforming Tradition” at FSR. Join Extension educators and industry pros at one of the premiere farm shows in the Midwest, Sept.16-18. Watch live demonstrations on cutting-edge practices and new technology. Connect with commodity partners. Check out kid-friendly activities in the Big Tent. Tickets are available at your local county Extension office, online, or at the gate during the event.