Cell phones changing the way farmers do business

An interesting and lengthy article from WCF Courier, on how cell phones have changed US farmers life for the better and they say the devices are one of the most important technological advances to help agriculture.

"Cell phones are more than just communication devices to farmers. They're invaluable tools that save them time, sometimes make them money and keep them safe. And yes, they keep them connected to family during long days in the field during planting and harvest.

Cell phone providers are listening and developing products specifically geared for farmers.

For example:

-- Grain farmers deal with razor-thin margins and volatile commodity markets. Not keeping constant tabs on corn and soybean prices can be costly. Some cell phone providers like U.S. Cellular provide current grain quotes and markets. Armed with the latest data, farmers can watch for rallies or dips in the market.

-- Two-way communication, like Nextel's walkie-talkie service, is also on the horizon so people can merely press a button to talk instead of dialing a number each time.

-- Besides personal safety, farmers use cell phones to monitor the welfare of livestock. Auto-dial alarm systems in livestock buildings can immediate call a producer's cell phone in case of emergencies.

--Some cell phone providers also provide current weather forecasts, weather warnings or allow users to download Doppler radar images on the phone's screen. A farmer knows to get out of a field before a storm hits, or that there's time to get the work done.

"Farmers were some of the early adopters" of cell phone technology, said Jodi Valenta, sales manager for U.S. Cellular in Northeast Iowa "It's all about efficiency and staying in constant contact for a home business, which farming is."

Picture from Nader & the Greens.

Previous post on US farmers and cell phones:

-- US Farmers turn to cell phones - Nationwide, a recent survey by ``Successful Farming'' magazine showed that more than 75 percent of U.S. farmers have cell phones. That's 10 percent higher than the population as a whole.

emily | 2:05 PM | SMS and Business |
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