Cutting-edge technology boosts productivity

An innovative camera and AI system is helping dairy farmers improve productivity and cow health.

The system uses a camera fitted to the parlour or race, allowing a bird’s-eye view of the cows as they pass underneath. It assesses mobility and body condition score (BCS), which the farmer can view on a desktop or app.

The HerdVision system is available exclusively through Wynnstay, whose specialists then advise farmers on the best way to improve their business productivity by addressing any issues within the herd.

Partnership

“This partnership brings the benefits of early identification of problem cows alongside support from Wynnstay’s specialists, nutritionists and range of products – ensuring that any problems are quickly addressed,” says HerdVision chief executive Matt Dobbs.

“Wynnstay’s superior knowledge of dairy farming, range of expertise and wide product portfolio made them logical partners to bring the benefits of vision technology to UK dairy farming.”

Having the data and information is great, but what is more important is for farmers to utilise it in the best way to maximise their return on investment, says Mr Dobbs.

Lameness is one example where the partnership can make a difference.

With data from the HerdVision reports, and working alongside the farm’s foot trim-mer, Wynnstay says it can identify problem areas which may be causing issues like sole bruising or white line disease.

Significant savings

Research suggests lameness can cost as much as £330 per cow. Savings using Herdvision could be significant, particularly considering the cost an accredited mo-bility scorer, explains Wynnstay nutritionist David Jones.

“For nutritionists, this will provide vital data on BCS changes throughout lactation – allowing for valuable insights into the transition period and its success, along with information on potential overfeeding or underfeeding.

“Mobility issues are one of the main reasons for cows to leave the herd early so this will also improve cow longevity and sustainability. Once set up, the farmer has the benefit of a wealth of knowledge and expertise.”

The system costs £5,900 with a free subscription for the first year. HerdVision is eligible for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund.

‘Don’t let drought leave a dirty legacy’

Farmers are being urged to test water for contamination following dry spring and summer weather.

Dairy farmers should test and treat private water supplies for microbial contamination, says Will Whittingham, ruminant sales manager at Kersia UK. While many dairy farms use private boreholes or springs, few test them regularly enough, he adds.

Water quality is an invisible threat on farm with serious consequences for herd health and productivity – particularly when boreholes, watercourses and troughs become compromised by bacterial build-up during dry weather.

Contamination risks increase significantly during and after drought, says Mr Whittingham.  “When rain eventually arrives, it can wash accumulated contaminants such as E. coli, Salmonella or Cryptosporidium into water systems.”

Frequent testing

As you can’t see pathogens, it’s easy to assume the water is safe, says Mr Whittingham. But water should be tested every six months, and ideally more often in times of environmental stress.

Stagnant water in troughs can harbour harmful microbes and encourage algae. Shrinking water levels in boreholes or watercourses can allow surface run-off and manure to enter the system.

“Clean water is just as important as providing high quality feed, with lactating cows consuming over 100 litres a day. Any drop in intake or water hygiene can impact milk yield, fertility and introduce disease.”

Multiple points

Mr Whittingham says farmers should sample water from multiple points, checking for microbial and mineral imbalances, and treating  where needed – including by UV filtration, chemical dosing, or improved trough hygiene routines.

“Some farms benefit from low-level continuous treatment, others need emergency interventions when issues arise. Don’t let drought leave a dirty legacy.

Preventative testing and biosecurity protocols will protect both the herd and your bottom line. We recommend working with a trusted supplier or vet to interpret test results and develop a treatment plan.”