It is no exaggeration to say that much has changed since the first metal plow sliced into the thick, fertile Iowa soil.

The annual cycle of planting and harvesting continues, but just about everything else about farming has changed. And it is technology that has caused much of that change.

The animals that pulled those first plows have been replaced by tractors, which have become massive machines that have cabs packed with computers and other electronics. Those tractors and the other machinery farmers use are just the most visible examples of technology’s impact on agriculture. Even the seeds are impacted by technology.

In this edition of Farm News, you will find a special section exploring ag technology.

In its pages, you will learn about:

• Pyrolysis, a process to make fuels that achieve a net reduction of carbon.

• A project about predicting the size of hail stones, which have been an enemy of farmers forever.

• Growing herbs year-round.

• An effort to bridge the digital divide in rural areas.

Those are just a few examples of the technology Iowa farmers use now and will use even more in the coming years.

Because of the massive impact of technology on agriculture, Farm News is pleased to bring you this special publication. We think you will find it enjoyable and informative.