Sensor technology continues to amaze me. Having watched this fascinating technology since the 1980s and written about its usefulness in monitoring everything from tractor components to grain quality, I’ve become a firm believer that such sensor precision truly pays.

Current research underway by engineers at Iowa State University aims to plant small (2×4 in.) prototype wireless soil sensors under crops. The goal is to give farmers another precision data layer of information to better manage nutrients, water and carbon to maximize yields and profits–and minimize environmental impact.

Think of the possibilities. 

Check out ISU’s sensor research team and their efforts.