AI Research Gives Small Farmers Big Tools

As artificial intelligence technology is on the rise across a variety of sectors, researchers at Fort Valley State University are utilizing the emerging tech to develop an animal health management app to support small and limited-resource farmers in saving money and increasing productivity.

By Fort Valley State University — summarized for agInnovation

Providing access to expanding technologies for small and limited-resource farmers strengthens livestock health.

At Fort Valley State University in Georgia, researchers are using cutting-edge technology to solve one of agriculture's most practical challenges: how small and limited-resource farmers can access expert-level animal health guidance without the high cost of veterinary services.

With a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the research team is developing a precision animal health management app that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and geographic information systems (GIS) to help farmers monitor and improve the health of their sheep and goats. The goal is simple but powerful: turn a smartphone into a real-time decision-making tool for livestock care.

Using the app, a farmer can take a photo of a goat's eyes with their phone and upload the image for analysis. The system then evaluates the animal's condition and provides immediate recommendations for improving the animal's health. What once required expert interpretation can now happen instantly in the field.

The modeling behind the app supports improved environmental impacts, such as identifying ideal areas to grow medicinal plants such as sericea lespedeza, which naturally helps control parasites and improves animal health.

Beyond its impact on farmers, the project is strengthening America's research capacity. A new AI and GIS laboratory at Fort Valley State University will train students in advanced data science and agricultural modeling--preparing the next generation of researchers and innovators who will shape the future of U.S. agriculture.

Once fully implemented, the decision support system can be used anywhere in the world where livestock are raised, showing how U.S.-funded agricultural research doesn't just serve local needs, but contributes to global food security and American leadership in innovation.

Stories like this show why sustained investment in agricultural research matters. When science is well-funded and connected to real needs, it strengthens farmers, builds resilience, and keeps the United States at the forefront of global agricultural innovation.

Read the full story here.

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