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WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a longtime member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today questioned witnesses at a hearing on leveraging technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in U.S. agriculture. Thune welcomed Dr. José-Marie Griffiths, president of Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota, to testify on the potential of AI within the agriculture industry and ways South Dakota farmers and ranchers are already utilizing the technology.

Thune’s opening remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“Thank you, Chair Stabenow.

“I’d like to welcome Dr. Griffiths from Dakota State University (DSU) to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry  today. 

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Dr. Griffiths for several years. 

“She’s testified in front of the Senate Commerce Committee multiple times, and I appreciate her willingness to share her expertise with the Ag Committee.

“Dr. Griffiths has served in presidential appointments to the National Science Board, Commission on Libraries and Information Science, and she has recently been appointed to be a member of the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence. 

“Because of Dr. Griffiths’ passion about expanding research and educational opportunities, Dakota State University is a leader in the nation in developing a high-quality skilled technology and cyber workforce.

“And DSU has played a critical part in ensuring our farmers and ranchers are able to take part in the technological revolution.

“DSU, in partnership with South Dakota State University, launched a joint doctorate program on precision ag and cyber.

“This program brings an important focus to the cybersecurity threats the agriculture economy faces, and this is critically important as new technologies like artificial intelligence become more prevalent in the agriculture sector.

“Dr. Griffiths, thank you for being here today, and I look forward to your testimony.”