TECHNOLOGY

The Western Canadian Dairy Seminar kicked off on March 5 with tours of three Alberta dairies, each showcasing new automated technologies. Highlights included the Vector feeding system at Crestomere Holsteins, a robotic bedding unit at Corenco Holsteins, and a newly constructed all-in, all-out climate-controlled calf barn with auto-feeders at Janna Dairy.

Scientists at the College of William and Mary are using sound waves to interfere with birds’ ability to communicate about food sources and predators, resulting in flocks leaving the premises.

In conjunction with the 2019 Western Canadian Dairy Seminar, three Alberta dairies opened their doors on March 5 to showcase newly constructed facilities featuring exciting technologies, including automated bedding, feeding and milking.

With the VAS Platform now available, there may be a few questions on how to access data. Two topics that have to do with accessing your data will be covered in this tip: how to access your herd’s dashboard and how to grant access to your herd data to others.

Lameness and hoof lesions can have a major impact on farm profitability. In order to assess the situation and better control the problem in one’s herd, it is important to collect reliable data on a regular basis to track progress.

Coming in 2019, Compass is a new free online genetic software allowing you to “Navigate Your Herd’s Success.” Compass comes to you from Holstein Canada and the Canadian Dairy Network, with support from Zoetis Canada.