Interactive workshop to examine how technology can boost dairy calf rearing

The event – on February 6 – aims to bring together all those working to rear dairy calves, to examine the latest technology, how it is used – and what other tools farmers want.

Dr Laura Palczynski is one of the researchers from Harper Adams who has helped set up the day.

She said: “While there are numerous technologies available for use with dairy cows, fewer options exist for calves which, as in other aspects of the rearing process, are often overlooked.

“The day is all about understanding what tools are wanted and needed, and what is possible to achieve through technology development. So, we’re inviting people with practical insights from the many different sectors of the calf industry alongside those with technology and animal research expertise.”

Speakers during the day include award-winning dairy farmer Karen Halton, examining what really matters in calf rearing; Dr Clara Mancini, who will look at how technology design can focus more on animal needs - and Dr Lisa Morgans, who will talk how we can consider the users of technologies.

There will also be some lightning talks from technology providers including Wellcalf by Smartbell, Galebreaker, Peacock, Lely and Breedr.

Dairy expert and Senior Lecturer in Animal Science Dr Emma Bleach, who will also be taking part in the day, added: “We plan to incorporate structured networking activities into the event, designed to showcase the technologies currently available and highlight opportunities to develop both existing and new technologies.

“In doing so, we will highlight areas where further research is needed, both for further development of existing technologies and application of the new ones. We’ll also be splitting into smaller groups to ensure a range of perspectives inform our recommendations for developing technologies that work for calves, calf rearers, farmers and the wider industry.”

The day has been funded by the Animal Welfare Research Network using money from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

It is hoped that fresh research will emerge from discussions between academics, farmers, veterinarians and those working in the dairy and beef sectors on the day- and that networking opportunities at the event could lead to the formation of future research collaborations.

Laura added: “Ultimately, we want to support calf rearers with their calf management – so we want to hear what they want and need.

“The development of technologies specifically for calves can provide valuable insights that farmers can act upon to enhance health, wellbeing and productivity.

“However, these technologies need to be used to be useful!

“We hope these discussions help ensure that farmers can be confident, when investing in tools, that they will work for their staff, their business, and their animals.”

To register for the event, visit harper.ac.uk/calffeb25