b"Blackleg Kumar took a moment to explain the essence of AI and how it Darkened, ghoulish stems.revolutionizes seed analysis.Cankered, rotting body.The vast world of AI encompasses various technologies like Gnarled, shriveled pods.machine learning, deep learning, and neural language process-Shattering seeds, scattereding. It's a methodological approach that drives innovation, victims. Twisted, monstrousrather than being a singular technology in itself.silhouette amidst the goldenWith machine learning techniques, the researchers have canola field.trained a model using extensive seed images, allowing it to learn and predict the characteristics of different seeds. This innovative technology serves a specific purpose, addressing the Sclerotinia challenge of accurately identifying seeds.Bleached, wilting figure.The imaging project, a collaboration between 20/20 Seed Cottony, haunting growth.Labs and the University of Albertas Glen Uhrig Lab, highlights Hollow, rotting inside.the growing interest and investment in AI within the seed Scattered, hard black bodies.industry.Ghostly presence in lushKumar envisions a positive impact on seed analysis through green fields. Silent, deadlyAI, offering advancements in seed identification and a promis-invader. ing future for the seed industry. By harnessing the potential of AI methodologies, seed analysts can make more informed deci-sions, optimize operational processes, and enhance customer Rhizoctonia experiences.Reddish-brown, gnarled figure. Sunken, rottingTAKEAWAY: AI is not a futuristic villain, but a practical lesions. Strangled, stuntedtool that can transform the seed industry for the better. roots. Withered, wilted foli- As with any new technology, AI will shape the industry, age. Menacing presence increating new roles and empowering agronomists to verdant pea fields. Stealthy,tackle challenges more effectively. destructive marauder.Harness AI to Sell ProductTAKEAWAY: AI is an umbrella term that encompassesThough AI has gained prominence in recent times, its roots an infinite array of learning algorithms that allowtrace back to the 1950s when computer programs capable of computers to gather information and learn from it.solving math problems marked the birth of AI. Over the years, Its not perfect, but will get better over time and isAI has evolved significantly, showcasing its potential to revo-more effective if you learn how to use it properly andlutionize different sectors. However, while we have witnessed familiarize yourself with its strengths and weaknesses. remarkable progress, we are yet to see some of the grand predic-tions about AI materialize fully.Harness AI to Automate Repetitive Tasks Schweigert highlighted the challenges in hiring quality field According to Kumar, AI can empower seed analysts by auto- agronomists and product support positions in the seed industry. mating repetitive tasks like seed quality inspection, freeing upAs each farm is unique, agronomists must adapt to chang-time for more critical analysis. Rather than replacing humaning environmental nuances year after year, making the job expertise, AI acts as a valuable tool to complement and enhanceincreasingly demanding, he says.the workforce. In this context, AI emerges as a promising aid for seed While apprehensions are understandable, embracing AIbrands and retail operations. By leveraging AI-powered tech-can lead to a more fulfilled workforce, increased productiv- nology like drones and advanced data analysis, agronomists can ity, and superior decision-making capabilities. AIs predictivecover more ground and gather information swiftly, he adds. abilities offer significant potential for early disease and pestDrones provide a bird's-eye view of fields, aiding in disease outbreak detection, enabling proactive and targeted cropdiagnosis and monitoring plant health. Combining on-the-management,he says.ground experience with AI-processed data enables agronomists 20/20 Seed Labs has been working on a ground-breakingto efficiently analyze vast acres and make informed decisions.computer imaging project in collaboration with the University of Alberta. Before delving into the specifics of this project, SEPTEMBER 2023GERMINATION.CA 41"