How Land O’Lakes is using AI to revolutionize farming practices

Founded in 1921, Land O’Lakes is one of America’s largest agricultural cooperatives, widely known for its dairy products but also deeply involved in providing crop inputs, animal feed, and sustainability initiatives to farmers across the United States.

Since Teddy Bekele  took on the role of Chief Technology Officer in 2018, the cooperative has focused on a major digital transformation—bringing big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics to the forefront of agricultural practices.

Bekele’s strategy blends high-tech innovation with a commitment to the farmers Land O’Lakes serves, balancing advanced solutions with practical tools that enhance productivity across the cooperative’s business units. This includes WinField United (crop inputs), Purina (animal feed), Truterra (sustainability initiatives), and dairy operations. By developing real-time, data-driven insights, Bekele’s team aims to empower both Land O’Lakes’ internal operations and its agricultural partners in the field.

One key innovation under Bekele’s leadership is the AI-powered crop protection guide from WinField United, which uses machine learning to analyze pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide data. This tool provides farmers with tailored, real-time recommendations, helping to save time, reduce waste, and increase yields. Bekele emphasizes that AI’s real value lies in delivering practical, targeted solutions for specific agricultural challenges, from crop management to livestock care.

AI in Supply Chain and Production

In addition to crop protection, AI has improved Land O’Lakes’ supply chain efficiency, particularly in managing perishable dairy products. By using predictive models to track regional demand, the cooperative can better allocate resources during high-demand seasons like the holidays. This approach optimizes logistics and reduces food waste, an ongoing concern within the food industry.

However, this digital transformation hinges on a crucial challenge: connectivity in rural areas. As chair of the Minnesota Broadband Task Force, Bekele notes that broadband access remains limited for many farming communities, creating a barrier to adopting real-time, AI-driven tools. With expected federal investments in rural broadband, Bekele believes these new capabilities could significantly improve food security and productivity in these regions.

“The future of agriculture is digital, but reliable internet access is essential to realize that potential,” Bekele remarked, emphasizing the connection between connectivity and agricultural advancement.

Resiliency through Foundational Tech

Bekele’s role extends beyond cutting-edge tools to include traditional IT infrastructure—specifically cybersecurity and system reliability—necessary to support these innovations. His leadership style fosters a collaborative environment where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas, ensuring that Land O’Lakes’ digital progress remains both innovative and resilient.

Long term, Land O’Lakes’ digital goals align with addressing global food security concerns. According to a Purdue University report, significantly higher yields are necessary to meet the needs of a growing global population. While certain trials have achieved corn yields exceeding 800 bushels per acre, the national average remains closer to 180 bushels, indicating a large gap in productivity. Bekele’s team is focused on bridging this gap by developing data models that support better yields, integrating AI to improve productivity while addressing sustainability challenges in agricultural expansion.

The Road Ahead: AI’s Role in Agriculture

The potential for AI and data analytics to reshape farming practices is substantial. Land O’Lakes’ AI tools may soon provide detailed insights into soil health, crop disease, and irrigation needs, empowering farmers to make better-informed decisions in real time. This blend of advanced technology, local expertise, and timely data forms a powerful support network for modern farmers.

Bekele emphasizes that giving farmers accurate data at the right time enhances their success. As Land O’Lakes continues its digital transformation, it offers a model for other agricultural organizations seeking to incorporate technology to optimize yields, supply chains, and sustainable practices.

Ultimately, Land O’Lakes’ journey goes beyond technology implementation; it reflects a vision of a more sustainable, efficient agriculture sector. As AI, big data, and connectivity reshape the industry, Land O’Lakes stands at the forefront, supporting the future of food production through practical, real-world innovations.