MUSCATINE, Iowa–To the untrained eye, farming may seem like it has not changed in generations. Though tractors, combines, and other vehicles may look similar to older models on the outside, they now feature many advanced technologies that help farmers plant and harvest with greater precision, collect data about their crops, and use it to maximize yields year after year. As farmers embraced these tools, they found themselves needing technological advice and support services they had not before. In 2014, TruAcre Technology opened in Muscatine and began fulfilling these needs for farmers across the region.
TruAcre prides themselves on working with every kind of farm equipment and has advisors certified to work on 15 different equipment brands. Whether farmers want advice on what to purchase, how to utilize new technologies on their farm, or learn how to analyze and apply the data they collect, TruAcre can assist them. TruAcre Marketing Manager Elise Hepker detailed, “TruAcre serves three categories of growers: growers who are unsure of what technology to purchase on their operation and need expert guidance; growers who own the technology and need training, set-up assistance, and yearly support; and growers who need help using the information gathered to make data-driven decisions within their operation.”
Over time, TruAcre has developed their skills to such a point that they also assist crop insurers in interpreting crop data they receive. “Additional services TruAcre offers include acting as the technology arm for AIPs as well as Crop Insurance Agents to help them understand and utilize precision farming data to streamline the crop insurance reporting process,” detailed Hepker.
In all of their services, Hepker says TruAcre employees focus on working hard, giving honest answers, and enjoying themselves, something that gains them, “raving fans,” and, “makes it incredibly enjoyable to come to work every day.”
This approach has resonated with area growers and helped TruAcre mature into a thriving business: “The feedback and support we’ve received from these members of the community have helped shape TruAcre over the course of the past six years. For that, we are so grateful” enthused Hepker.
TruAcre’s authentic and effective advice has gained them a wider following, too. Hepker reports that TruAcre advisors, “support over 500 farmers throughout Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri and are continuously growing and adapting our business to better serve our clients.”
In April, TruAcre joined the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to help them connect with even more growers throughout the county. “TruAcre decided to join the Chamber of Commerce to further integrate our company into the Muscatine community as well as a way to continue to form important relationships in this great community,” shared Hepker. She feels very excited about this new relationship, and looks forward to the opportunities it will afford both TruAcre and the community as a whole.
