At the forefront of innovation in dairy farming, robots are taking center stage at the Canadian Dairy XPO, transforming the way cows are milked. Tony Brazda, Lely North America’s area sales manager, highlighted the advantages of using robots in this evolving industry. “They don’t show up hungover, they’re not late and they don’t quit,” Brazda humorously remarked, emphasizing the reliability and consistency that robots bring to the table.
Lely, a renowned Dutch agricultural machinery and robotics manufacturer, has been a pioneer in dairy robot technology since 1992, now milking approximately 20% of Canada’s cows. Brazda noted that automation is a natural progression across industries, with robots offering labor flexibility by reallocating hours of work each day. This shift is not just about efficiency but also about improving the well-being of farmers, as Doug Johnston from Maplevue Farms shared.
Johnston’s experience encapsulates the transformative impact of robotics on dairy farming. Six years ago, he and his brother automated their Listowel-based farm, installing two robots in a barn, which has revitalized their approach to farming. “It frees us up,” Johnston remarked, highlighting the physical relief from repetitive tasks that robots provide. This sentiment was echoed by Johnston’s observations on improved health, with fewer strains on joints and overall better quality of life for farmers.
The integration of robots into dairy farming isn’t just about milking; it extends to other aspects such as waste management. At Maplevue Farms, robots not only milk cows but also efficiently clean barn floors, showcasing the multifaceted benefits of automation. Johnston’s journey from skepticism to embracing technology reflects a broader trend in the industry, where farmers are adapting to new tools and methodologies for sustainable and efficient operations.
Mike Hargrave’s perspective adds another layer to this narrative. As the owner of Avonbank, an agricultural dealership serving dairy farmers, Hargrave has witnessed the evolution of farming firsthand. Robots have become the flagship product at Avonbank, with a significant number of installations each year. Hargrave emphasized that robots have not only revolutionized farming practices but have also become a reliable and integral part of dairy operations.
The adoption of robots signifies a generational and lifestyle change in dairy farming. It’s not just about embracing technology but also about reimagining workflows and improving overall farm management. The success stories shared at the Canadian Dairy XPO highlight the transformative potential of automation in enhancing productivity, reducing physical strain, and ensuring the sustainability of dairy farming for future generations.
