Technology to enhance Farm Decision-Making

Livestock ranch operations balance complex production efficiencies with economics, resources and climate and could benefit from automation or implementation of new technology. However, the practical details of using technology on the ranch need to be further investigated to determine their true value. Often, on-farm scenarios with live animals introduce additional issues causing technology to function in a less than ideal manner. Tracking livestock on expansive pasture land with GPS tags enables herd inventory and location data capture during the critical summer breeding season; but only if the tags function in the environment as expected. Under this application, we intend to employ a business strategy intern capable of assessing the resource requirements (time, labour, cost etc.) necessary to implement a GPS cattle tracking technology system on the ranch to improve management decisions. Partners will benefit by having evidence informed strategies that address the specific challenges of remote northern ranches. The new knowledge discovered will aid in process determination and development that may enhance beef ranch productivity.

Faculty Supervisor:

Susan Markus

Student:

Partner:

Highland Feeders

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

Lakeland College

Program: