NNY agriculture industry may lean more on artificial intelligence in coming years, researchers say | Agriculture
Publish Date: 2026-03-28 14:06:00
Source Domain: www.nny360.com
Here are the main points from the article, summarized using an unordered list:
– Cornell professor Todd Schmit reported during Jefferson County’s annual Agriculture Development Conference that the agricultural industry in Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, and Oswego counties generated $3.9 billion in industry output, according to his research.
– Schmit noted rising costs in labor, overtime, tariffs, and other expenses are lowering profit margins, resulting in a more realistic projection of around $1.9 billion.
– Costs have increased by about 40% compared to the previous two years, indicating significant financial challenges in the industry.
– Despite current uncertainties, Richard A. Ball, the commissioner of the state Department of Agriculture and Markets, observed “quite a lot of uncertainty in the industry” but remains “encouraged” due to major expansion in agricultural manufacturing by companies like Chobani, Agri-Mark, Great Lakes Cheese, Hood, and FairLife.
– The conference highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture, including its use for monitoring cow health and productivity through sensors and cameras, and as a tool for efficient marketing to customers.
– AI technology allows farmers to collect complex data on animal health and behavior, thus making decisions that enhance farm efficiency and productivity.
– Kelsey O’Shea, from the American Dairy Association North East, explained that AI can quickly create personalized marketing messages, reducing the need for time-consuming social media efforts.
– This marks the 23rd year of Jefferson County Agricultural Economic Development’s annual conference and its 25th anniversary since its inception.
