Precision livestock farming and pasture management systems

Publication date: 05/11/2018
Extent: 40 pages

Contributions by: Mark Trotter, Central Queensland University Institute for Future Farming Systems, Australia

Chapter synopsis: Precision livestock farming (PLF) focuses on individual animal monitoring and management. Precision pasture/rangeland management is concerned with monitoring and dealing with landscape spatial and temporal variability whilst considering the influence that animals bring to these systems. This chapter reviews a range of technologies currently applied or in development which facilitate this individual animal and refined landscape management across the spectrum of extensive grazing production systems. The chapter examines the challenges faced by the livestock industry and the potential solutions offered by precision management, focussing particularly on techniques currently applied in precision animal and pasture management. The chapter includes detailed case studies on using a basic farm GIS to determine sustainable long-term stocking rates, and integrating satellite multi-spectral imaging with plant growth modelling to manage livestock rotations. Finally, the chapter looks ahead to future trends in this area and provides guidance on further reading.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2017.0032.18