Ames, Iowa – As digital tools become essential to modern agriculture, Iowa farmers face growing risks from both cyber threats and extreme weather events. To help producers strengthen their digital resilience, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering a three‑part webinar series, Digital Farming Systems Risk Awareness and Management, April 7–9, during ISU Extension and Outreach Week.
The series, developed by the ISU Extension and Outreach farm management team, along with the ISU Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach, is part of the Cyber Incident Management Exercises program. The webinar series will equip farmers and agricultural professionals with practical tools to identify, prepare for and manage risks affecting Iowa’s increasingly digitally connected farming systems.
Digital agriculture continues to expand rapidly across the state. According to the USDA’s 2025 data, 72% of Iowa farms use a computer, 84% use a smartphone, and 42% rely on precision agriculture technologies. Farmers are also conducting more business online, with 45% purchasing inputs and 38% marketing products online.
“Cybercrimes and weather disasters can be equally devastating to Iowa’s digital infrastructure,” said Ryan Drollette, farm management specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Helping farmers prevent losses and recover quickly when incidents occur is now a core part of risk management.”
All webinar sessions will be held from noon to 1 p.m. CDT.
- Tuesday, April 7: Weather Disasters Impact on Digital Farming Systems
- Wednesday, April 8: Cyber Threats Impact on Digital Farming Systems
- Thursday, April 9: Managing Weather and Cyber Risks in Digital Farming Systems
Farmers, agricultural professionals and industry stakeholders are invited to attend any or all sessions. Participants interested in attending must register online.
Additional in-person workshop
Participants are also encouraged to attend an upcoming in-person Digital Farming Systems and Crisis Management workshop in Ames on Aug. 24.
The one-day workshop will highlight the digital technology used on Iowa farms and how weather disasters or cybercrimes can cause serious disruptions. Producers will learn about digital risk management and preparedness strategies that can significantly reduce losses in an emergency.
Participants must register online to attend.
For more information, contact Madeline Schultz at Schultz@iastate.edu.
