Talking farming of the future at UK Dairy Day

With over 300 exhibitors, more than 200 cattle on-site, breed village, diversification zone, practical demonstrations, and topical seminars, it really was an insightful event. The atmosphere was buzzing as farmers, students, sponsors, and all those connected to the industry networked and did vital business.

The dairy industry is one of the most innovative and forward-thinking sectors. From robotic milking parlours, cow sensors, drone mapping, and fertility technology, to automated cleaning systems and electronic identification, technology is in every part of farming life. It helps to improve production, efficiency and performance.

The World Bank says we'll need to produce 50 per cent more food by 2050 if the global population continues to rise at its current pace and with the effects of climate change, crop yields could fall by more than a quarter.

Paired with uncertainty surrounding Brexit, farmers are ever more concerned with streaming production. This calls for technology; autonomous tractors, ground-based sensors, flying drones and robotic machinery can potentially help farmers produce more food, more sustainably at lower cost. Technology is and will continue to play an unprecedented role in revolutionising farming and the dairy sector.

Earlier in June, Farm491 was pleased to launch five workshops at its Manor Farm in Harnhill, Gloucestershire. A redundant farm barn was transformed into a refined and sophisticated agritech centre. Whether members are walking into the office in a suit or driving out into the field in overalls, the workshops offer the ideal agritech start-up solution for all those concerned with the agricultural and food industry.

On Tuesday, September 26,, this impressive building, which was officially opened in June by BBC Countryfile Presenter Adam Henson, will welcome visitors for a ‘behind the scenes’ Open Day from 10am to 2pm. Perhaps you’re straight out of university or agricultural college with a burning idea in your head. Follow your passion and turn your business into reality with the support of agritech experts at Farm491.

Farm491 strives to bring together a forum of members to collaborate, share knowledge and expertise – an incubation hub where new technologies are born, developed, and launched.

Farm491 covers over 1,000 acres of farmland and in its entirety, will comprise multiple spaces to support agritech businesses. Members can use space to test and launch products, as a business base, or others may just like to keep in touch with the community through virtual membership.

Verity Payne, Farm491