Precision Ag Conference Planned for July

Attracting more than 400 precision ag experts from 40 countries, the 12^th International Conference on Precision Agriculture will be held July 20-23 at the Hyatt Regency in Sacramento, California, USA.

In the heart of high-value agriculture, the Sacramento setting is fitting to the high-tech talks on the program. The global scale of the conference is apparent from the list of presenters and exhibitors. ICPA brings together a unique mix of researchers, industry, and practitioners.

ICPA is the premier scientific conference on precision agriculture. “We selected the top research papers from around the world for the conference. With session chairs in precision water management, precision horticulture, unmanned aerial vehicles, precision conservation, precision livestock, remote sensing, and data standards, the oral program reflects the diversity of our members’ interests,” said Dr. John Stafford, President of ISPA. In addition, the program features two poster sessions with over 70 posters on display during the conference.

The program also features talks on practical applications of the latest technology in crop and livestock production. Through the support of our major sponsors, the conference will feature a track for practitioners in addition to the five tracks on precision ag research. “At ICPA we have continued to appeal to the practitioner in addition to the researcher and academic. It is important that the research work finds its way into practical applications in crop production,” said Quentin Rund, Conference Secretary.

The schedule provides plenty of time for interaction among attendees. From the Sunday night welcome reception sponsored by E & J Gallo Wineries, to the dedicated time for exhibits and posters during breaks and evening receptions, the program promotes networking and opportunities for in-depth discussion among attendees, presenters, exhibitors, and sponsors.

For international and domestic visitors to the area the conference has partnered with the University of California-Davis to organize a post-conference tour for Wednesday afternoon after the closing session. The tour will feature area stops on UAVs, high-tech tomato production, precision irrigation, and imaging systems in wine grape production. Other options for exploring the area are available, too.

The conference is organized by the International Society of Precision Agriculture. More information is available online at www.ispag.org/icpa including program, exhibits, tours, and accommodations. Online registration is open

The conference is sponsored by E & J Gallo Wineries, Monsanto, DupontPioneer, and Springer.