The problem with open geospatial data for on‐farm research

Scientists are under increased pressure to provide research data freely and openly to all interested parties as a means of furthering science. More than sharing data, there is an additional expectation that data comply to Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable (FAIR) principles. The requirement to share data presents challenges for farm geospatial data. The primary contention of this commentary is that data sharing requirements will make on‐farm research increasingly difficult while also not achieving the stated purposes of opening data. De‐identification of farm geospatial data is not sufficient to protect privacy, reducing likelihood of participation in research. Moreover, de‐identified farm geospatial data will have greatly reduced reusability. Limited guidance is available on appropriate mechanisms for sharing of farm geospatial data. This commentary briefly summarizes benefits and realities of data sharing, expands discussion to support the primary contention, and concludes with high‐level suggestions for moving forward. As scientists we extol the merits of open data. However, there is no official guidance on how to implement opening of farm geospatial data while protecting the privacy of collaborators. Core Ideas Researchers are encouraged and/or required by funders and journals to share research data. There are challenges with protecting privacy of collaborators when sharing geospatial data. It may be difficult to obtain on‐farm collaboration without privacy protection. We need a community standard that is amenable to all parties.