NASDA members seek collaboration and resources on artificial intelligence tools for farmers

Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture 2026 Winter Policy Conference, NASDA members amended the organization's policy to encourage USDA and public-sector research institutions to collaborate on developing research on new uses of artificial intelligence in agriculture.

"To best serve farmers, ranchers and consumers, it is imperative that USDA and Land Grant Universities invest in helping the agricultural community take advantage of rapidly accelerating technologies such as artificial intelligence tools," NASDA CEO Ted McKinney said.

NASDA's policy now states, "NASDA encourages greater cooperation between USDA and public-sector research institutions in the development of resources that can aid farmers and agribusinesses to identify emerging technology, including artificial intelligence solutions that can increase their efficiency and improve their overall stewardship."

"The agriculture industry relies on a foundation of robust, evidence- based research to make decisions, solve challenges and develop innovative solutions across all sectors. Greater coordination between USDA and public research institutions will be critical for ensuring producers and consumers are able to benefit from the rapidly evolving nature of AI technology," McKinney said.

NASDA member Secretary Redding, who led the submission of the policy amendment, shared that Pennsylvania is making strategic investments to strengthen our agricultural economy and help producers put new technologies to work. For example, through the nation's only Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, the state department of agriculture is helping farms, forest product businesses, and food manufacturers expand capacity, improve efficiency and create and retain jobs. NASDA's policy to encourage collaboration with USDA and public research institutions - pairing real-world investment with trusted research - will help the agriculture industry in Pennsylvania and across the U.S. adopt emerging technologies, stay competitive and drive economic growth in rural communities.

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NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors of the departments of agriculture in all fifty states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances American food and agricultural communities through policy, partnerships and public engagement. To learn more about NASDA and its trade programs and trade policy, please visit www.nasda.org.