Trev Integrates with LIC MINDA
Farm software outfit Trev has released new integrations with LIC, giving farmers a more connected view of animal performance across the season and turning routine data capture into actionable farm intelligence.
Heat detection and getting cows back in calf has the potential for a marked effect on the bottom line of any dairy operation.
Detection patches help, but even experienced campaigners find it labour intensive and time consuming.
LIC now offers automatic heat detection in herringbone milking sheds, using technology that builds on that offered in rotary set-ups (Protrack EZ Heat system).
The herringbone version, shown as a prototype at the 2015 Fieldays, is now available commercially and, like the rotary system, it integrates with LIC Automation's Protrack system to draft cows after heat detection, and with the Minda system to record these events.
The herringbone set-up has an in-race camera booth through which the cows pass after milking. The camera photographs a heat detection patch above the cow's tail and evaluates the image of the patch for signs of activation.
In the rotary set-up this process is carried out while the cow is still on the platform.
In both systems, cows showing no signs of activation are drafted straight back to the paddock; those showing signs of activation, or missing patches, are automatically drafted into a holding area for further investigation and possible insemination
Automation chief executive Paul Whiston says "Protrack EZ heat reduces production losses through missed heats, and removes the stress and labour costs associated with a manual detection regime".
For the 2016-17 season LIC is offering interest-free terms on a range of products.
A Local State of Emergency has been declared for the Waikato for a period of seven days as the region prepares for Cyclone Vaianu to hit the area.
Farmers will get an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in sheep genetics at the Sheep Breeder Forum this May.
Specialist horticulture and viticulture weather forecasters Metris says the incoming Cyclone Vaianu is likely to impact growers across the country.
A group of old Otago uni mates with a love of South Island back-country have gone the lengths of Waiau Toa Clarence from source to sea. Tim Fulton, who joined the group in the final fun to the river mouth, tells their story.
Operating with a completely different format from conventional tractors and combine harvesters, the NEXAT prime mover combines all steps of crop production in one modular carrier vehicle, from tillage, through seeding to harvesting.
Reports of severe weather forecast to move over the vast majority of New Zealand’s kiwifruit orchards this weekend will be very concerning for a significant number of growers.
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