While I was voting in Washington this week, my staff had the privilege of attending Husker Harvest Days in Grand Island — an annual event that, for more than 40 years, has been a centerpiece for Nebraska agriculture. Known as the world’s largest totally irrigated working farm show, it brings together farmers, ranchers, and industry leaders from across the globe. It’s more than a farm show; it’s a gathering place where families exchange knowledge, explore innovations, and build connections that last well beyond the harvest season.
From live demonstrations of the latest equipment to educational programs led by experts, Husker Harvest Days showcases both the traditions and the future of farming. Whether you’re running a large operation or just bringing your family to learn and explore, the event offers something valuable for everyone.
This year, the weather cooperated with cool temperatures and cloud cover — a perfect backdrop for a day filled with conversation and learning. My staff met with Nebraska’s commodity boards, who generously shared their perspectives and expressed appreciation for the work we’re doing together in Washington. They also joined University of Nebraska President Jeffrey Gold and Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue on their tour, a reminder of how our state’s educational institutions and producers work hand in hand to advance agriculture.
One highlight was “The Future of Ag Tech” presentation, where the Farm Progress tech team reflected on where the industry is heading. They noted a shift: there was noticeably less new equipment on display compared to last year’s Farm Progress Show in Illinois. It’s a sign of the financial pressures many producers face today — a reminder that innovation doesn’t happen in a vacuum, but in the real-world economy of family farms.
The technologies they did highlight were both impressive and sobering. There were self-driving tractors that would have seemed like science fiction a decade ago. There were laser weeders capable of zapping unwanted plants with pinpoint accuracy, though they come with steep price tags. And there were drones that can not only fly but also operate field equipment. These innovations are fascinating glimpses into the future, but the theme was clear: while technology is accelerating, the costs remain a major barrier. Farmers are carefully weighing whether these tools provide enough return on investment to justify the expense — an especially tough calculation in today’s farm economy.
As striking as the technology was, most notable were the people in attendance. Everywhere my team went, Nebraskans were warm, welcoming, and deeply grateful for the support we’ve worked to provide. Their encouragement is a constant reminder of why I fight for agriculture every day in the Senate.
That’s why I reintroduced my bipartisan Precision Ag Package — three bills designed to expand access to innovative tools that make operations more efficient, productive, and sustainable. Precision agriculture helps farmers steward the land more effectively, but adoption is too often limited by two hurdles: steep upfront costs and gaps in rural broadband connectivity. My legislation tackles both challenges head-on.
I’m proud that this package has drawn strong support from organizations across the spectrum of American agriculture and manufacturing, including the American Equipment Manufacturers, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Ethos Connected, Irrigation Association, John Deere, National Corn Growers Association, and Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation.
I’ll continue working to channel this momentum into meaningful action by pushing for these provisions in the next Farm Bill. Because at the end of the day, the heart of agriculture isn’t just the machines or the technology — it’s the people. And Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers deserve every tool we can provide to help them thrive today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.