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.”