Ashley Perepelkin, a self-proclaimed city girl, never imagined herself selling fresh beef from cattle she raised on her own Alberta farm, let alone with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). However, her journey into farming and the integration of AI technology has transformed her life and business in unexpected ways.
Born and raised in Red Deer, Alta., Perepelkin’s path took an unexpected turn when she met her now-husband Andrew, a farmer. The couple got married in 2010 and began farming grain together. But when Perepelkin decided to venture into cattle farming, she quickly realized the challenges that lay ahead.
“A lot of things were learned, unfortunately, through trial and error,” says Perepelkin. Recognizing the need for knowledge and guidance, she enrolled in a continuing education course at Olds College of Agriculture and Technology in Olds, Alta. It was during this course that she came across a video showcasing the potential of AI in agriculture, sparking her enthusiasm.
Perepelkin saw AI as a solution to some of the inherent challenges in farming. One of the major benefits she highlights is the cost-effectiveness of AI compared to hiring employees. “Employees are expensive, especially when you don’t exactly know what you’re looking for at the beginning,” she explains. “It’s hard to train somebody.”
With AI technology, the Perepelkins can now monitor their cattle’s health, activity, nutrition, and growth more efficiently than ever before. By using AI-powered sensors and data analysis, they can gather real-time information about each animal, enabling them to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to ensure their well-being.
The implications of integrating AI into farming are significant. AI technology has the potential to revolutionize the agriculture industry by increasing productivity, reducing costs, and improving sustainability. By automating tasks and providing valuable insights, farmers can optimize their operations and make more informed decisions.
Furthermore, AI can help address the labor shortage in agriculture. As the younger generation shows less interest in traditional farming practices, AI offers a solution that can bridge the gap. By leveraging technology, farmers like Perepelkin can manage their operations with fewer employees while maintaining productivity and quality.
However, it is important to note that AI is not a replacement for human expertise and care. Perepelkin emphasizes that AI is a tool to support farmers, not replace them. The knowledge and experience of farmers are still invaluable in ensuring the welfare of the animals and the success of the farm.
Perepelkin’s journey from a city girl to a tech-savvy farmer is a testament to the transformative power of AI in agriculture. As more farmers embrace this technology, the industry is poised for a new era of efficiency and sustainability. With AI as their ally, farmers can navigate the challenges of modern agriculture and continue to provide high-quality products to consumers worldwide.
