This article, written by researchers from the University of Wisconsin, explores various applications of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in dairy farming, including the use of computer vision systems (CVS) for animal identification, body condition score (BCS) and body shape analysis, and potential uses of large language models (LLM) in the dairy industry. 

Calf welfare has been a key focus area of Drs. Dan Weary and Marina (Nina) von Keyserlingk’s industry research chair in animal welfare at the University of British Columbia. In a recent episode of the Dairy Farmers of Canada’s research podcast series, Paths to On-Farm Excellence, Weary and von Keyserlingk discussed milk feeding and group housing – two key elements of their research surrounding calf welfare and management.

A potential consequence of the dual hutch housing system is that when calves choose to share a hutch, this could increase the risk of heat stress during warm weather. We conducted a study at the University of Wisconsin – Madison to see if this concern is warranted and to measure how calves use hutch ventilation.

Building a new calf-raising facility is an expensive investment and not always an option. Converting an existing structure, whether it’s a pole shed or an old stanchion barn, to house and raise calves can be a great option – if proper ventilation practices are followed.