Ashley Perepelkin, a self-proclaimed city girl, never imagined that she would one day be selling fresh beef from cattle she raised on her own Alberta farm, with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Born and raised in Red Deer, Alberta, Perepelkin’s life took an unexpected turn when she met her now-husband, Andrew, who happened to be a farmer.
The couple got married in 2010 and started farming grain together. However, when Perepelkin decided to venture into cattle farming, she quickly realized that there was much to learn. “A lot of things were learned, unfortunately, through trial and error,” she admits. Determined to educate herself, Perepelkin enrolled in a continuing education course at Olds College of Agriculture and Technology in Olds, Alberta.
It was during this course that Perepelkin first discovered the potential of AI in agriculture. She watched a video showcasing how AI could revolutionize farming practices, and she became instantly intrigued. “Employees are expensive, especially when you’re just starting out and don’t exactly know what you’re looking for,” she explains. “It’s hard to train somebody.”
With the help of AI, the Perepelkins are now able to monitor their cattle’s health, activity, nutrition, and growth. This technology allows them to gather real-time data and make informed decisions regarding the well-being of their animals. By using AI, they can detect any signs of illness or distress early on, ensuring prompt intervention and reducing the risk of disease spread within the herd.
The implications of AI in agriculture are significant. The ability to monitor livestock remotely and collect data on their well-being has the potential to improve animal welfare standards across the industry. It also offers farmers like the Perepelkins a more efficient and cost-effective way of managing their operations. By utilizing AI, they can reduce the need for manual labor, which can be both time-consuming and expensive.
Furthermore, AI can help farmers optimize their resource allocation. By analyzing data on cattle nutrition and growth, farmers can make informed decisions about feed requirements, ensuring that their animals receive the optimal diet for healthy growth. This not only benefits the animals but also maximizes the efficiency of the farming operation, reducing waste and increasing profitability.
While AI in agriculture is still in its early stages, it is clear that the potential benefits are vast. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of AI in farming. From crop monitoring to automated machinery, the possibilities are endless.
For Ashley Perepelkin, the journey from city girl to AI-powered farmer has been a transformative one. Her willingness to embrace new technologies has not only improved her own farming practices but has also set an example for others in the industry. As more farmers recognize the potential of AI, we can expect to see a shift towards more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.
