By Andi Anderson
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, but its benefits are often inaccessible to those outside technical fields. The ICICLE project, led by The Ohio State University and funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to bridge this gap by integrating AI into agriculture.
ICICLE is making AI-driven solutions available to farmers, helping them address challenges such as pest control, irrigation, and fertilizer application. Traditional farming methods rely on broad strategies, often leading to waste. By using AI and drone technology, ICICLE offers more targeted and efficient solutions.
Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors capture images of crops, which AI then analyzes to detect areas of concern. These infrared maps highlight temperature differences, signaling crop stress or disease. This technology allows farmers to make precise decisions, optimizing resource use and reducing waste.
The project also combines drone imagery with weather data and on-the-ground measurements to provide a comprehensive view of farming conditions. AI-driven insights help farmers manage soil moisture, detect plant diseases, and monitor crop growth stages.
Processing drone data requires significant computing power, which is where the Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC) plays a crucial role. OSC enables rapid analysis of large datasets, allowing farmers to receive timely, actionable insights. This high-speed processing supports real-time decision-making and efficient farm management.
Beyond agriculture, ICICLE is developing AI workflows adaptable to environmental monitoring and urban planning. By integrating AI into practical applications, the project is training a new generation of professionals in data-driven farming.
ICICLE’s research continues to push the boundaries of precision agriculture, making AI technology more accessible and impactful for the future of farming.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, Education