Nebraska Researchers Surveyed Farmers on AI Tools

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is seeking feedback from Midwest producers on the utility and privacy of AI.

Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Agriculture

Isometric editorial illustration of a metallic agricultural sensor in a cornfield, representing a research study on artificial intelligence in farming. — Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are surveying Midwestern corn and soybean farmers to evaluate their perspectives on AI data privacy and cost. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe artificial intelligence tools will improve the efficiency and success of modern farming?

Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have launched a survey for corn and soybean producers across eleven Midwestern states. The study aims to gather input on how farmers view the trustworthiness, data ownership, and cost of artificial intelligence tools.

Why it matters

The study intends to move beyond industry assumptions to gain a direct understanding of how agricultural producers actually perceive and evaluate AI technology in their operations.

The survey targets producers and agriculture students at least 19 years old, with completion requiring approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Researchers are collecting responses from across 11 Midwestern states.

The players

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

This is a public research university that manages a comprehensive agriculture program and engineering department.

Department of Biological Systems Engineering

This academic department focuses on applying engineering principles to biological and agricultural systems.

The details

Researchers within the Department of Biological Systems Engineering are soliciting feedback regarding user experience, judgment, and technical concerns like privacy and cost. Participation in the study is voluntary and uncompensated for all eligible individuals.

September 24, 2026: The study details were published.

Market Landscape

This study aligns with the broader institutional efforts of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Biological Systems Engineering to modernize regional farming practices. It highlights a shift toward data-driven analysis of how producers weigh the integration of new technologies against operational costs.

Eligible corn and soybean producers in the Midwest may be contacted to provide their professional input on the future of farm management tools. Participants will spend roughly 10 to 12 minutes sharing their perspectives on current AI costs and data privacy concerns.

The takeaway

Farmers are increasingly being asked to provide input as AI developers tailor tools for specific agricultural needs. Producers should consider how their data ownership and operational costs will be impacted as these systems move from development to broad adoption.