Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, a renowned agricultural college near Ruthin, has taken a significant step forward in embracing smart agriculture technology. The institution has installed HerdVision, a cutting-edge system designed to enhance animal welfare and boost milk production in its dairy herd.
The HerdVision system employs 3D video monitoring to keep a close eye on the health and productivity of the college’s 280 dairy cows. Using a combination of 2D and 3D infrared cameras, smart algorithms, and edge processing, the technology gathers vital health and mobility data. This information is then swiftly sent to a server and made accessible via an app, providing real-time insights to farm staff.
Sam Rowlands, Member of the Senedd for North Wales, expressed his enthusiasm for the development. He highlighted the benefits for students, noting that the technology not only supports animal welfare but also brings economic and environmental advantages. “It certainly is good news for future dairy farmers wanting to study at the college,” he said, emphasizing the added value for students seeking farming qualifications.
Dewi Jones, farm manager at Llysfasi, shared that the system has already proven its worth since its installation in September. “The system monitors locomotion and body condition, which is invaluable when considering milk production, fertility, foot trimming, and other factors,” he explained. The technology has been particularly beneficial for students, offering detailed insights into individual cows and the herd’s dynamics.
One of the standout features of HerdVision is its ‘early warning’ system, which alerts staff to potential health issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. “It doesn’t take away from the skill and instinct of knowing the animals,” Mr. Jones clarified. Instead, it provides additional information to aid decision-making and anticipate problems before they escalate.
Each cow passes through the cameras twice a day, ensuring that data is consistently updated and readily available to farm staff. This data can also be accessed by farmers, vets, and nutritionists through a web interface, facilitating precise monitoring and informed decision-making throughout the year.
The implications of this technology are far-reaching. For students, it offers a hands-on learning experience with advanced agricultural tools, preparing them for the future of farming. For the industry, it represents a move towards precision agriculture, where data-driven decisions can lead to improved animal welfare, increased productivity, and more sustainable practices. As Coleg Cambria Llysfasi continues to embrace such innovations, it sets a precedent for other institutions and farms to follow, paving the way for a more technologically integrated agricultural sector.