Open AccessApplication of a computer dairy model on-farm
Author(s) -
C. P. Lewis,
B. Garrity
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
proceedings of the new zealand grassland association
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1179-4577
pISSN - 0369-3902
DOI - 10.33584/jnzg.1993.55.2075
Subject(s) - gross margin , stocking , profitability index , udder , production (economics) , pasture , margin (machine learning) , dairy cattle , computer science , agricultural science , simulation , agricultural engineering , engineering , environmental science , business , forestry , economics , geography , microbiology and biotechnology , macroeconomics , finance , mastitis , biology , machine learning
For Mr Barry Garrity, Carterton dairy farmer, the spring of 1992 brought a very challenging decision-making process. A computerised simulator (model) of the physical functions of his property had been in use since October 199 1. As a high stocking rate, high performance farm the next step in improving profitability was being sought. The simulator provided a means of reviewing performance, searching out means of more efficient use of pasture and overcoming the limitations to increased production. The software (UDDER) models grass growth and animal performance for an actual season with a gross margin used to reflect the financial component. In this case base data were derived from the 1990191 season, a record year for the property. Keywords: computer, dairy farm, forecast, gross margin, model, simulator