AI and Technology Are Changing Northern Ireland Farming
AI cameras, robotic milking and farm apps are helping Northern Ireland farmers monitor livestock and run their farms.
At a glance
- AI cameras and apps are helping Northern Ireland farmers monitor cattle health and farm records.
- Robotic milking systems and high-speed broadband are improving efficiency on some farms.
- Developers say AI should advise farmers, not make decisions for them.
Farmers in Northern Ireland are using artificial intelligence and other technology to manage livestock and farm businesses, including AI cameras, robotic milking and farm record apps. The reports describe how these tools are being used on farms in County Antrim and County Tyrone as farmers seek to improve efficiency and animal health.
George McMaster is a third-generation farmer who began by milking eight cows in a byre and relying on his eyes to spot health issues. He now keeps a herd of about 300 cattle near Islandmagee in County Antrim and watches much of it through an AI camera in the milking parlour. The device uses an algorithm to assign each cow an ID, record short videos and flag changes that may not be visible to the human eye.
His son Jack, who is taking over the farm, became involved with a CattleEye app from a local developer. He said the camera can spot problems earlier than daily visual checks, including lameness or illness, and help farmers act before cattle lose condition. He said healthier cows can mean more milk and better welfare.
Caleb Howard uses technology for about 90 Jersey cows near Coagh in County Tyrone. The cows use a robotic milking machine when they choose to, rather than being herded at set times. Howard said high-speed broadband was a game-changer and helped him open a farm shop with electronic payments.
Robert Smyth used the FarmDrive app for four years to run his herd near Randalstown in County Antrim. Its developer, Gareth McDonald, said the app is meant to give farmers quick access to animal records and that AI should advise rather than decide for farmers.
Ian Marshall, a former Ulster Farmers' Union president, said AI could be as revolutionary as an earlier farming invention. He said farm data could help deliver economic, environmental and social sustainability.
Source: BBC Science
Questions and answers
- How is AI used in farming?
- Farmers use AI cameras to monitor cattle health and farm apps to keep records. Developers say AI should advise farmers rather than make decisions.
- What technology are Northern Ireland farmers using?
- They use AI cameras, robotic milking machines and farm apps such as CattleEye and FarmDrive. High-speed broadband also helps some farms.
- Will AI replace farmers?
- A developer says AI should not replace humans or make decisions for farmers. It is meant to help farmers see information at the right time.
