Thursday, 25 November 2021 11:55

Collar-mounted sensors launched

Written by  Staff Reporters
The technology combines behaviour data collected via proprietary collar-mounted sensors with data from internetconnected farm systems, farm equipment and third-party sources. The technology combines behaviour data collected via proprietary collar-mounted sensors with data from internetconnected farm systems, farm equipment and third-party sources.

A Dutch start-up is joining forces with Fonterra's Farm Source to launch collar-mounted sensors for cows.

Connecterra, which uses artificial intelligence to deliver insights to dairy farmers, says it has signed a deal with Fonterra for the sale of its intelligent dairy assistant (Ida) platform in New Zealand.

The technology combines behaviour data collected via proprietary collar-mounted sensors with data from internet-connected farm systems, farm equipment and third-party sources.

Ida then uses artificial intelligence to translate the data into real-time, easy-to-understand insights in the app. Users respond to insights with just a few taps. This feedback is processed using machine learning, allowing Ida to become smarter and more personalised for each farm over time.

Connecterra says the NZ launch follows the completion of a successful two-year trial at Cloverlea Farm, a split calving farm in South Waikato.

Owner Chris Poole sees a clear difference in Ida and believes the technology can be a game changer for Kiwi farmers.

"Ida's technology is different. She learns you and your farm. It's easy to see the difference in our in-calf rates and animal health. There is so much potential for other farms in New Zealand," says Poole.

The nationwide rollout began in the South Waikato region in August. With mating season underway, Connecterra says customers are already using Ida to help with tasks such as detecting heats and drafting for insemination.

"Our goal is to empower farmers globally to increase productivity while reducing the impact of farming on the planet.

"After seeing strong, positive results during the pilot, we're pleased to see Ida technology scale across New Zealand," said Yasir Khokhar, chief executive of Connecterra.

He says to celebrat Ida's arrival in New Zealand, Connecterra is offering a special introductory price for Farm Source customers and Fonterra suppliers who subscribe before January 31.

More like this

Fonterra posts solid results

Fonterra has delivered a solid half-year result, thanks to higher margins and sales volumes across the co-op's diversified product and category mix.

Featured

Sheep drench resistance costly

Analysis by Dunedin-based Techion New Zealand shows the cost of undetected drench resistance in sheep has exploded to an estimated $98 million a year.

Dairy sheep and goat turmoil

Dairy sheep and goat farmers are being told to reduce milk supply as processors face a slump in global demand for their products.

Hurry up and slow down!

OPINION: We have good friends from way back who had lived in one of our major cities for many years.

National

Govt urged to reduce ETS units

The Climate Change Commission wants the new Government to reduce NZ Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) auction volumes as son as…

Dairy sheep, goat woes mount

Dairy sheep and goat farmers are being told to reduce milk supply as processors face a slump in global demand…

Machinery & Products

All-terrain fert spreading mode

Effluent specialists the Samson Group have developed a new double unloading system to help optimise uphill and downhill organic fertiliser…

Can-Am showcases range

Based on industry data collected by the Motor Industry Association, Can-Am is the number one side-by-side manufacturer in New Zealand.

» Latest Print Issues Online

Milking It

Papal visit

OPINION: European farmers are going to extreme lengths to have their message heard.

Thai egg tarts

OPINION: The hustle and bustle of one of Bangkok's most popular fast food outlets may feel a world away from…

» Connect with Dairy News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter