Farmers To Share Their Uses Of Computers At MU Meeting At Osage Beach, Feb. 14-15
COLUMBIA, MO.
Farmers will learn new ways to farm with computers at a Feb. 14-15 meeting at Osage Beach. They meet to share their ideas and learn from others.
It’s a second try for Computers on the Farm this year. A January meeting was snowed out, says Kent Shannon, agricultural engineer, University of Missouri Extension, Columbia.
In much of the program farmers talk to farmers.
“Farmers are innovators and like to share,” Shannon says. “The program continues being updated as new ideas come forth.”
Uses of farm computers range from bookkeeping to precision agriculture. MU specialists add new ideas as well. Shannon keeps up on tracking drones for crop scouting.
Tracking of grazing paddocks for rotational grazing by cows becomes easier with computer apps.
Now home assistant devices are available. Micro Bit computers will be shown at work.
Attendees should bring their computers and mobile devices. There will be show-and-tell plus work sessions. Leaders will show new equipment.
The meeting is for the whole family, Shannon says. Sometimes young people help older family members. Programs help all users from beginners to most advanced.
One reason for postponing the January meeting was schools were closed for severe weather. "School buses couldn't bring FFA members who attend," Shannon said.
This long-running conference will be held in the same place as before, but the resort name has changed: Margaritaville Lake Resort, 494 Tan Tar A Drive, Osage Beach.
Special off-season room rates apply. Call 800-826-8272 for reservations.
Register for the event at agebb.missouri.edu/cotf .
For more information, contact Shannon at 573-445-9792 or shannond@missouri.edu .
Registration fees include meals and materials.
“Bring the family and make a vacation at the Lake,” Shannon says. “It can be a weekend away.” ∆