Shepherd University Professor to Present on AI Applications for Agriculture

ISSUED: 29 January 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Dr. Brooke Comer, a professor of sustainable agriculture at Shepherd University, will present on the practical use of artificial intelligence in agriculture at the "Introduction to AI for Agriculture: Harnessing AI to Help Small Farms Flourish" workshop in Hillsboro, Virginia on Tuesday, February 17.

Comer's presentation will highlight how Shepherd's Agricultural Innovation Center-including the Agricultural Small Business Incubator and Tabler Student Farm-is integrating AI tools to support small farm operations. The Agricultural Small Business Incubator helps aspiring farmers build sustainable businesses, and the Tabler Student Farm serves as a student-run demonstration and education farm. Both programs have incorporated AI applications to assist with identifying crop diseases and pests.

The event is organized by OpenAI Academy in partnership with local farmers and is designed as a hands-on learning and networking opportunity for farmers, agricultural professionals, and community partners.

Participants will explore how AI can reduce administrative burdens, improve access to timely information, support data-informed decision-making, and increase the efficiency of small farming operations. Workshop discussions will include real-world examples of how farmers are using AI tools for equipment troubleshooting, soil and field analysis, operational planning, and other day-to-day challenges.

Developed by farmers for farmers, the event emphasizes peer learning and practical application, with a focus on strengthening local agricultural communities through technology.

To learn more about Shepherd University's Agricultural Innovation Center, visit https://www.shepherd.edu/sustainable-agriculture. For event details, visit https://academy.openai.com/public/events/introduction-to-ai-for-agriculture-afspaa7tcf.

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