From Drones to Data: MSU’s Basso Lab Driving Next Era of Regenerative Agriculture

By Jack Falinski

When Jeff Sandborn first started working with Dr. Bruno Basso over 10 years ago, he didn’t know his collaboration with the John A. Hannah Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University would lead to him and his Portland, Michigan farm being featured in a story published by the New York Times.

But that’s what happened in 2025.

On display in the Sept. 22 article were all the concepts and tools Sandborn Farms has incorporated within its operations since 2014 based on the suggestions of Dr. Basso, whose position at MSU spans across the departments of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences and Earth and Environmental Sciences, as well as the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station.

Most visible in the photos and videos were drones, technology that has allowed Sandborn to more precisely apply nutrients to his corn crop. What they have also allowed Sandborn to understand — by way of data gathered through remote sensing capabilities — is where on his property to apply the nutrients. Areas of land identified as having greater production potential based on soil health metrics have been given heightened attention from Sandborn, while he’s designated other parts of his land deemed to be less productive as spots that can support pollinators, wildlife and the environment.

In doing so, Sandborn has increased his yields, reduced unnecessary application and input costs, and helped restore his land — all of which, he learned, is gaining attention and appreciation, even beyond those he’s worked with.