The U.S. Department of Energy recently reported a rise in copper theft, which cost victims over $1 billion in 2013. In response to this growing threat, AgSense has introduced improved theft monitoring on all its 2014 Field Commander products. This allows producers to monitor and control pivot systems while also providing theft protection all from one unit.

“Because pivots are typically in remote locations, they have become a big target for copper thieves,” said Steve Sveum, AgSense Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “It can take thieves less than 20 minutes to gather thousands of feet of copper wire, which can cost the producer over $10,000. These producers work hard for their money and we’re committed to protecting their investment.”

The Field Commander has always included theft-monitoring capabilities as long as the pivot was powered. New models, however, provide protection when the unit is not powered, such as during power outages and the off-season. Theft protection is available on all 2014 Field Commander units and is included with any subscription level.