Artificial intelligence on the farm is not meant to replace people

Technology is changing the way the world thinks about farming, and it can be a great tool, but if often sends worries of job loss and replacement.

“There’s a group of people that feel there to be displaced by AI. There’s a group that’s also really optimistic about it, but, you know, this isn’t meant to replace people; it’s meant to enhance you, allow you to focus on the value. And I think there’s a space for people and the added co-exist where the person actually is able to focus on value generation and value creation,” said Sachi Desai.

There are a lot of different uses for artificial intelligence in a farming operation. Desai says the goal is limiting unneeded complexities and using software to do it.

“AI should allow us to think about adapting software to our needs, not us continuing to adapt to software, like, I have to learn a lot of widgets of how to use Adobe Photoshop. With the way AI’s going, the way you start focusing on value, then you should be able to think from about thinking what you’re actually trying to solve for, and then everything else is more or less ancillary.”

Advancements in AI on the farm have grown by leaps and bounds over the last couple of years, and it is not slowing down anytime soon. Analysts with Texas A&M say the artificial intelligence market will grow 30 percent between now and 2033.

Related Stories
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.
New Resource Makes It Easier for People to Access Data on Rural Development funded Projects in Rural Communities
U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share practical health and safety guidance for managing respiratory and skin health during the winter season.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
NASDA declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. President Amanda Beal joins us to share NASDA’s new hub, which highlights the impact of women in agriculture worldwide.
Matt Brockman, communications director for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, joined us to share a preview of the upcoming event.
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.