What’s the next big thing for dairy farms? Data monitoring

Data monitoring is a helpful tool on dairy farms, but picking the most efficient system can be a challenge. Leaders at AllFlex Livestock Intelligence say the first step should be determining your goals with it.

“Determine what your goals are with that system, and from there, work closely with your local dealer to decide which system best aligns with those goals. You know, maybe talk to multiple dealers and get a feel for them. Go on farms and contact areas that are already using the system and ask about their experience. Really ask about the support that they’ve gotten from their dealers. Supports are a really important piece of the puzzle here. Monitoring systems can be a large investment really with a lot of opportunities, but if there is not strong support from the supplier, it likely isn’t going to live up to its fullest potential in the long run,” said Sarah Anderson.

Anderson says data monitoring systems do not only improve the quality of life for the producer but the animals, too. With real-time animal tracking and the ability to make environmental changes as needed, she says it can make for a healthier herd.

Related Stories
Meet Judi Whittaker, a fourth-generation farmer and dedicated advocate for agriculture, and the New York Farm Bureau’s 2024 Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award Winner.

Agriculture Shows
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Farm Traveler is for people who want to connect with their food and those who grow it. Thanks to direct-to-consumer businesses, agritourism, and social media, it’s now easier than ever to learn how our food is made and support local farmers. Here on the Farm Traveler, we want to connect you with businesses offering direct-to-consumer products you can try at home, agritourism sites you can visit with your family, and exciting new technologies that are changing how your food is being grown.
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.
Host Ben Bailey hops in the tractor cab, giving farmers 10 minutes to answer as many questions and grab as much cash as they can for their local FFA chapter.