Hawai'i's farmers and ranchers are increasingly turning to technology to address challenges and enhance their operations. This trend, highlighted by recent U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data, reflects a growing recognition of the crucial role technology plays in protecting property and livestock, and in fostering long-term sustainability.
One area of significant investment is in advanced monitoring systems to provide real-time data and early warnings. As reported by the USDA, the devastating 2023 Maui fires underscored the need for better data collection and disaster response in agriculture. These systems utilize various sensors and aerial surveillance to monitor crops and provide up-to-date disaster information.
Further, technological integration extends to managing livestock health and optimizing resource use. Specifically, a recent report from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture shows over 87% of Hawaii farms use smartphones. Technology is also being used to combat livestock parasites. One tech company is using AI for testing, like the Micro-I, a portable digital microscope paired with AI software. Farmers can upload images of faecal samples to the cloud for analysis, receiving results within hours.
This technology-driven shift presents various opportunities for Hawaii's business landscape. The demand for tech-based agricultural solutions is creating a fertile ground for startups specializing in precision agriculture tools, data analytics, and remote monitoring systems. Investors keen on supporting local entrepreneurs can find promising ventures focused on sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. However, this transition also presents challenges. While technology helps solve many problems, it is important to consider if advancements are truly for the greater good of the population and environment Hawai’i Farmers Union United
