On-Farm Application of Precision Dairy Technologies

Technologies are changing the shape of the dairy industry across the globe. In fact, many of the technologies applied to the dairy industry are variations of base technologies used in larger industries such as the automobile or personal electronic industries. Undoubtedly, these technologies will continue to change the way that dairy animals are managed. This technological shift provides reasons for optimism for improvements in both cow and farmer well-being moving forward. Precision dairy monitoring is the use of technologies to measure physiological, behavioral, and production variables on individual animals to improve management strategies and farm performance. Precision dairy monitoring technologies provide tremendous opportunities for improvements in individual animal management on dairy farms. These technologies are changing how dairy producers manage reproduction and health. Although technology provides opportunities to monitor cow health, comfort, and welfare, a producer must still practice good husbandry techniques. However, PDM technologies can only enhance a well-managed system, due to the increase in available information. How the data provided by these technologies is turned into actionable solutions is critical. Wearable technologies dominate the market now. New sensor systems will be introduced into the market. These systems will likely transition from primarily wearable technologies to more image and milk based systems. Investment decisions should include a thorough, formal evaluation of profitability. The human factors related to successful technology adoption cannot be overlooked. Excitement about technical capabilities must be balanced with consideration of implementation challenges and economic realities.