The N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative (PSI) Extension Agent Network is committed to helping growers solve real-world problems in the field through cutting-edge plant science innovation. Agents in this network leverage their strong relationships at the local level to both drive future N.C. PSI projects and to beta-test technology being developed by the N.C. PSI on-farm.

Onslow County Crops and Livestock Agent, Melissa Huffman, has been involved with the NC PSI Extension Agent Network since 2024. The network currently consists of 32 counties across the state of North Carolina. Since joining the network, she has worked with scientists, engineers, and start-up companies on two projects. The first project focused on automated corn ear worm moth traps. Currently, she and three other NC Agriculture Extension Agents are beta-testing AI data software for AgerPoint to monitor the growth stages of crops. 

The PSI Extension Agent Network, in collaboration with AgerPoint, is beta-testing AI Technology to capture growth stages of corn, soybeans, and cotton. Throughout each crop's various growth stages, Agents use the AI technology software to gather data on the crops. To collect the data, Agents use an app on their phones that captures and stores the data in an online cloud. After using the AI technology, agents manually collect data. This is to make sure that the AI software is capturing accurate information on the crops. 

So, why is this research important? With the ever growing demand of food increases, farmers are being stretched for time. This AI software can provide a faster way for farmers to gather information on their crops. This technology aims to provide farmers with better insights for crop health, yield prediction, and overall farm management. Farmers are then able to make important decisions to aid in better crop yields. Additionally, it is important for farmers to stay ahead when it comes to innovation. 

This cutting-edge project to advance agricultural AI technology is still in the works. Agriculture Extension Agents across NC will continue beta-testing this technology until the end of July 2025. This initiative highlights the vital role of Extension Agents in bridging the gap between innovative research at NC State University and practical application in the field, helping to develop a more data- and AI-savvy agricultural workforce.