By Scout Nelson
Nebraska has joined the NASA Acres Farm Innovation Ambassador Team, a national initiative focused on improving agriculture through advanced technology. The program uses satellite Earth observation, farm data, and digital tools to develop practical solutions for farmers.
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Digital Farming Lab plays a key role in this collaboration. Dr. Guillermo Balboa, Research Assistant Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture and Leader of the Digital Farming Lab, will provide technical support and guide to research efforts. The lab will also help connect Nebraska’s agricultural practices with broader national innovation programs.
“Nebraska has a strong history of producer-driven innovation in precision and digital agriculture,” he said. “Joining NASA Acres FIAT creates an important opportunity to connect Nebraska’s field-based work with a national network focused on practical tools and trusted partnerships. It reflects the kind of collaboration that helps move innovation from research to on-farm impact.”
NASA Acres is supported by NASA’s Earth Science Division and focuses on agriculture and food security. The program connects farmers, researchers, and agricultural experts to turn scientific data into useful decision-making tools. It ensures that farmers remain at the center of innovation by aligning technology with their needs.
“FIAT is built around the idea that farmers should help shape the technologies and tools intended to serve them,” said Alyssa Whitcraft, Program Co Lead and Executive Director of NASA Acres. “We are excited to welcome Roric and our partners at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln as we continue expanding this national network of producer-led innovation.”
Nebraska will contribute field experience and expertise in digital agriculture. The partnership will help create tools that improve productivity, save resources, and strengthen long-term agricultural sustainability.
“Early adoption has been at the forefront of our operations,” he said. “Bringing innovative people and technologies together with grounded scientific support is a significant opportunity for U.S. agriculture. Collaboration with UNL is, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of those relationships.”
The Digital Farming Lab will also conduct on-farm research to improve nitrogen use efficiency in corn production.
“We are excited to expand this program into additional states while building on our existing work in Kansas, Illinois and New York, and we are particularly pleased to welcome representation from Nebraska as we continue growing this farmer-driven network,” said Ignacio Ciampitti, Program Co Lead and Chief Agronomist at NASA Acres.
From July 14 to 16, 2026, team members will meet in College Park, Maryland, to share ideas and strengthen collaborations.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extension
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Education, Equipment & Machinery