Farmers and ranchers not only run their own businesses; they oversee the food supply. That’s a big responsibility. And considering that a North Dakota farm or ranch averages more than 1500 acres, that’s a big area to manage.

How do you make sure livestock and crops are safe? Buildings are secure? Heating and water systems are working as they should? Fortunately, high-tech security and surveillance options are available to keep a close eye on farm/ranch operations from anywhere, at any time.

Security systems equipped with video cameras can help deter theft and protect agricultural assets such as fuel tanks, machinery, outbuildings, holding pens, grain bins, water supplies – anything that needs oversight to ensure safety and profitability. They can also monitor driveways and structures to detect people entering the property. These systems offer remotely accessible tools such as door and window sensors, glass break detectors, smart light controls, and door auto-locks. With 24/7 support, any disturbance triggers a live security response.

Families own or operate more than 85 percent of North Dakota’s farms. In many cases, these owners head to warmer states during the winter and ask a friend or relative to check on the farm. But often that friend or relative is not onsite 24/7. A security system can help fill the need to check in and make sure all is well. Temperature and water sensors let farmers monitor things remotely and detect a problem early, so they can fix issues they otherwise may not have known about until it was too late. For example, a temperature sensor sends the farmer an alert via phone or other smart device if the furnace quits working. This mobile access allows them to arrange for repairs quickly, even when they are miles away. Additional security features such as door sensors and motion detectors provide many family farmers the peace of mind and confidence that their home and business will be waiting safely for them when they return.

Security and surveillance specialists can design the right system for a farm’s or ranch’s unique needs. Whether the goal is safeguarding crops, animals, and property, or ensuring all systems are go, these high-tech options take on the job of protecting what matters.