Maximum Yield Modern Growing USA Magazine - January 2017

In this issue

For the 80-plus per cent of North Americans who reside in urban areas, it is easy to believe that technology is reserved only for those who live in the city. Our city lives, after all, are immersed in technology. We’re connected by smartphones, transported along our roads by vehicles with sophisticated computer systems, and we rely on myriad apps that automate virtually everything we do. This technological revolution isn’t reserved just for urbanites, however. Technology in the field of agriculture is also moving swiftly forward. While the modern farmer still maintains his or her stereotypical elements—they still rise at ungodly hours and muck stalls—the tools they use are as sophisticated as any employed in the city. In this issue of Maximum Yield, we explore the changing face of agriculture and its emerging technology. Cory Hughes provides us with a 10,000-foot view of some of the new advancements in traditional agriculture, including automated agriculture, artificial intelligence, and the rise of agbots. Meanwhile, Tim Jennings takes us a little closer with insight on amazing technology like micro drone pollinators, also known as RoboBees. These smart little robots are the result of collaboration by some seriously smart propellerheads who are looking way into agriculture’s future. Both features are worth a read. Of course, not everybody is a techie. For many, the pursuit of growing still means getting their hands dirty in some soil or maintaining an indoor hydro system. We’ve got those individuals covered too with Sara Elliott’s article on the delightfully simple but effective herb spiral and Frank Rauscher’s comparison between deep water and NTF systems. No matter where you live, the city or country, the team here at Maximum Yield wishes you a happy new year and success in all your growing pursuits. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email us at editor@maximumyield.com.