Lessons in agronomy at Collierville High School

Agronomy is the study of soil management and crop production. The field improves agricultural yields, enhances product quality and encourages environmentally friendly farming methods. Most students interested in agronomy learn about the subject in college, but Collierville students can take classes in high school. Gene Robinson, an agriculture teacher at Collierville High School, enriches his students’ agronomy skills by incorporating new technology into his curriculum. Learn more about the high-tech drones and soil mapping tools provided by CEF!

Drone technology

Students in the digital agronomy and plant science/hydroculture classes are using three brand-new drones in their regular classroom lessons. Students use the drones to work on real-world projects including crop monitoring, soil assessment and precision farming. They collect data and analyze their findings. Students get to measure improvements in crop monitoring efficiency, data accuracy, reduced input costs, improved yields and enhanced decision-making in agronomy practices. These lessons will follow them throughout their lives and give them a great advantage when stepping into their professional careers. 

Digital soil mapping

Another agronomy grant at Collierville High School allows students to analyze soil health using digital tools, aiming to optimize crop yields and sustainability. Mr. Robinson’s class received a Vernier LabQuest® 3, a Vernier Temperature Sensor, moisture sensor and pH sensor that all collect real-time data for soil analysis. The tools help students identify environmental variables affecting crop growth and teach them the GPS/GIS mapping process. This grant addresses precision farming needs by enhancing agricultural efficiency and environmental stewardship. Students also build STEM knowledge and learn all about sustainability practices in agriculture.

Keep up with the latest grants entering Collierville classrooms on our Facebook page!