Remote Observation of Field Work on the Farm

TL;DR

This paper explores remote observation of farm work using vehicle-mounted technology to enable real-time monitoring and interviews, addressing challenges posed by travel restrictions and social distancing.

Contribution

It presents a novel application of remote observation technology in agricultural fieldwork, including a pilot deployment and insights for conducting remote observational research.

Findings

Successful remote observation of farm work via vehicle instrumentation

Insights into conducting remote field research during travel restrictions

Potential for long-term remote monitoring of agricultural activities

Abstract

Travel restrictions and social distancing measures make it difficult to observe, monitor or manage physical fieldwork. We describe research in progress that applies technologies for real-time remote observation and conversation in on-road vehicles to observe field work on a farm. We collaborated on a pilot deployment of this project at Kreher Eggs in upstate New York. We instrumented a tractor with equipment to remotely observe and interview farm workers performing vehicle-related work. This work was initially undertaken to allow sustained observation of field work over longer periods of time from geographically distant locales; given our current situation, this work provides a case study in how to perform observational research when geographic and bodily distance have become the norm. We discuss our experiences and provide some preliminary insights for others looking to conduct remote observational research in the field.