Guest Speaker: Jennifer Wright, Executive Director, CAHRC
26/08/2024 • 12:00 pm
This webinar focused on GenAI and its implications for agriculture, especially for farmers and agricultural workers, addressing prevalent uncertainties while emphasizing responsible adoption. It discussed the rapid adoption of AI, its benefits and risks, the need for rural infrastructure, and the changing skills required in agriculture, particularly in dairy farming and veterinary practices.
AI can significantly aid rural veterinary care by enabling virtual visits and providing better data collection for farmers to share with vets or vet technicians. This technology can improve diagnostic capabilities, personalize animal care, and help address the shortage of vet technicians and vets across Canada. Additionally, AI tools can enhance productivity by automating tasks like note-taking, allowing vets to spend more time with patients.
ChatGPT and similar tools are more likely to be useful for administrative tasks, such as writing reports or managing paperwork. However, there are many sector-specific tools being developed that leverage large language models for more direct applications in farming. These tools can help with various farm operations and administrative needs, enhancing productivity.
AI tools, including Generative AI, are seen as major drivers of productivity enhancements. By advancing skills through training and utilizing AI for data gathering, the agricultural sector can improve productivity and address challenges such as workforce efficiency and food supply security. Enhanced data application in the value chain, like tracking the origins of food recalls, can reduce disruptions and improve overall productivity.
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