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F RO M T H E E D I TO R
A
s Mainebiz delved into the topic of AI, we knew we weren't going to
be at the cutting edge of the discussion.
But we did want to get a firm grasp on how it's being used in Maine.
In other words, artificial intelligence may be a global topic, but the goal
of this issue is to address how Maine businesses and institutions are using it.
A feature on Maine's food producers looks at two old-school sectors —
farming and fishing — and completely pivots the model.
Sloane Perron, who reported the story, looked at the massive undertak-
ing at Vertical Harvest, a four-story growing facility that will grow 2 mil-
lion pounds of leafy greens annually. As Sloane reports, "every growing
tray is equipped with sensors that capture millions of data points on the
plants and their environment. is data is then transformed into action…"
Likewise, Cooke Aquaculture uses AI tools to improve feed efficiency,
estimate biomass, track growth, detect parasites and monitor environmen-
tal conditions.
ese are just two examples explored in this issue.
At the Roux Institute of Northeastern University, Zach Blattner offers
steps to break down the AI challenge. e first one seems appropriately
placed at the top: Choose your AI tool wisely. In other words, the AI
tool you use for complex analysis or code generation is different from
the one you'd use for creative content.
Blattner's second piece of advice is to break complex tasks into
bite-sized pieces.
Sounds simple, but it's a good suggestion that applies to a lot
of challenges in business.
Peter Van Allen
pvanallen@mainebiz.biz
Getting a grasp on artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is a
global topic, but Mainebiz
zeroes in on how Maine
businesses and institutions
are using it.
