By Scout Nelson
The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) has released its 2025 Technology Use Survey, highlighting notable shifts in how Nebraska farms are using technology. The report shows that 69% of Nebraska farms had access to computers in 2025, down from 77% in 2023. This figure is consistent with the national average of 68%.
Smartphones remain the most widely used technology among Nebraska producers, with 85% reporting access. Tablet use was noted on 39% of farms.
In terms of internet connectivity, 87% of Nebraska farms reported having internet access in 2025, a 3% drop from 2023. The survey found that farms used a variety of connection methods, including cellular (74%), broadband (54%), satellite (28%), dial-up (5%), and other options (1%).
Adoption of precision agriculture practices for managing crops or livestock also declined, with 41% of farms using these tools in 2025 compared to 55% two years earlier.
Precision agriculture includes technologies such as GPS-guided equipment, variable-rate application systems, and remote sensing for improved efficiency and decision-making.
The USDA NASS Technology Use Survey is conducted every two years to track the adoption of digital tools, communication methods, and data-driven practices in U.S. agriculture. The 2025 results suggest that while mobile technology remains strong, other forms of technology adoption on Nebraska farms have slowed in recent years.
For historical data and more detailed breakdowns, producers and researchers can visit the USDA NASS online archive.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Nebraska, Government & Policy