Artificial intelligence is becoming a larger part of agriculture, but many farmers remain cautious about adopting the technology, according to the latest Purdue University CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The monthly survey asked producers about artificial intelligence and data-driven tools for the first time, revealing that many are still uncertain about the value AI can provide to their operations.
Agricultural economist Michael Langemeier said researchers were surprised to find that more than half of respondents do not yet believe artificial intelligence offers meaningful benefits on the farm.
Among farmers who do see potential in AI, increasing production ranked as the technology’s greatest benefit. Fewer respondents believed artificial intelligence would reduce labor or lower risk and uncertainty, despite labor savings often being highlighted in broader discussions about AI.
The survey also explored how practical AI-generated recommendations may be under real-world farming conditions. Langemeier said changing weather, labor availability, equipment limitations, and other field conditions can make it difficult for producers to follow data-driven recommendations exactly as prescribed.
Langemeier said Purdue plans to continue asking producers about artificial intelligence in future Ag Economy Barometer surveys as farmers gain more experience with the technology and additional AI tools become available. Researchers hope those future surveys will provide a clearer picture of how adoption and attitudes change over time.
