RDO Equipment Co. and UA Yuma Ag Center Forge Partnership to Advance Smart Farming

In a significant move for Yuma's agricultural sector, RDO Equipment Co. has partnered with the University of Arizona's Yuma Agriculture Center (YAC) to introduce advanced precision agriculture technologies and comprehensive training programs.

Richard Arias, Vice President of Southwest Agriculture at RDO, emphasized the transformative nature of this collaboration, stating, "This partnership is a game-changer for both the YAC and the students involved."

Samuel Discua, Farm Director at YAC, highlighted the immediate benefits: "We're thrilled to integrate connected tractors and planters into our operations and to gain insights from RDO's data-driven expertise."

The YAC, managing nearly 500 acres of test fields, has updated its equipment, some of which had been in use for over two decades. This modernization aligns with YAC's vision of becoming a "smart farm," reflecting RDO's commitment to optimizing farming operations to meet global food demands.

Arias detailed the agreement: "Our collaboration provides the YAC with tractors for daily operations, ensuring they have the latest equipment to meet their research and customer commitments."

As a leader in agricultural research, the YAC focuses on experimental pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers to develop solutions for pest control and water conservation. The partnership also offers students hands-on training with connected tractors and the latest agricultural technology, covering applications like tilling, planting, and spraying.

Maria Zepeda, RDO's Yuma-based agronomist, noted, "The YAC not only serves current regional farmers through chemical research but also educates the next generation with practical training in precision agriculture equipment and technology."

Looking ahead, students, YAC leaders, and RDO team members plan to collaborate on field trials to cultivate lettuce, a staple crop in the region.

Arias reaffirmed RDO's dedication: "Our ongoing commitment to area farmers includes developing services, support, and training to identify best growing practices tailored to regional conditions."

Discua expressed optimism about the partnership's impact: "This collaboration enhances the YAC's capabilities, offering local farmers access to test equipment and new technologies. We anticipate many farmers will join us and RDO in exploring efficient methods to grow crops like lettuce, which is essential to the U.S. food supply."

In related developments, Yuma has seen significant community growth. The city approved a new housing complex for farmworkers, aiming to provide nearly 1,500 agricultural employees with housing during peak harvest seasons. Additionally, the University of Arizona's Cooperative Extension in Yuma received $5.5 million for a new building, enhancing its capacity to serve the community. These initiatives reflect Yuma's commitment to supporting its agricultural workforce and advancing research and education in the sector.

About RDO Equipment Co.

Founded in 1968, RDO Equipment Co. sells and supports intelligently connected agriculture, construction, environmental, irrigation, positioning, and surveying equipment from leading manufacturers, including John Deere, Vermeer, and Topcon. With more than 80 locations across the U.S. and partnerships in Africa, Australia, Mexico, and Ukraine, RDO delivers creative solutions to help customers grow and build the world.