Monsanto Co. announced it reached an agreement to purchase planting technology developer Precision Planting Inc.

Precision Planting will become part of Monsanto’s Integrated Farming Systems unit, which utilizes advanced agronomic practices, seed genetics and innovative onfarm technology to deliver optimal yield to farmers while using fewer resources.

When farmers are having planting difficulties, Alan Byerly says too many growers think the answer is to simply add more attachments. But the service manager for Precision Equipment in Washington, Iowa, says getting back to the basics of planting should be the first step before spending more dollars.

A new online application developed and launched by Spensa Technologies Inc. will help growers and pesticide consultants electronically track the number of insects in their crop fields so they can better control crop damage caused by insects and improve the use of insecticides.

NRCS, FSA propose streamlining and reform as lawmakers debate funding for conservation-title programs like EQIP and CRP.

Farmers and water managers may soon have an online tool to help them assess drought and irrigation impacts on water use and crop development, thanks to the work of two USDA scientists.