SAFER AG workshop focuses on safety in autonomous agriculture

By Andi Anderson

Autonomous farming technology, once imagined as futuristic, is now an active part of the agriculture industry. Robotic planting, driverless tractors, and drone usage are among the many innovations helping farmers operate more efficiently and with greater precision.

As these technologies develop at a rapid pace, it becomes essential to prioritize safety for farmworkers and address potential risks.

The Safety for Emerging Robotics and Autonomous Agriculture (SAFER AG) Workshop and Demonstration will take place on December 3 and 4 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, offering a hands-on experience with agricultural technology.

The event, hosted at the Funk ACES Library, will be a platform for farmers, industry experts, and researchers to discuss critical issues of safety, workforce requirements, and product development in autonomous agriculture.

On December 2, pre-workshop sessions will kick off the event, followed by two full days of interactive presentations and discussions.

Experts from academia and the ag industry will lead these sessions, allowing participants to network, gain insights, and stay updated on the latest research and safety measures in agricultural autonomy.

Key topics to be covered include the current state of autonomous farming technology, safety concerns in autonomous operations, the role of safety in product development, and future workforce needs.

"Before new technologies can be adopted widely, it’s essential to address the human side of technology interaction,” says Salah Issa, Assistant Professor at the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. The event will focus on promoting safer, more reliable solutions for the evolving ag industry.

On December 4, a live demonstration of autonomous agricultural systems will be held at the Stock Pavilion in Urbana, allowing participants to see the technology in action. This free, public demonstration will showcase sensors, robotic platforms, and previews of upcoming innovations in autonomous farming.

Registration for the SAFER AG workshop costs $75, with an early bird rate of $60 available for those registering by November 8. A special farmers-only rate of $20 is also offered. Learn more and register at go.illinois.edu/SAFERAG.

Photo Credit: pixabay-franck-barske