Utilizing Unmanned Aerial and Ground Vehicles in Livestock Production
Today’s technological advancements are constantly evolving. There is always a new gadget to buy, including ones that can help livestock producers and the agricultural industry.
There are two types of unmanned vehicles that are being researched and produced to improve the daily lives of producers and their livestock: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs)
Both are remotely controlled or operated autonomously without a human onboard. However, they differ in use. While UAVs are used in the air, UGVs are used for ground monitoring.
“The rapid advancements in AI and robotics technology have sparked a lot of interest in enhancing automation and efficiency,” Austin Fruge, a doctoral student at the University of Arkansas, said. “What sparked my interest in UAVs and UGVs stems from their vast untapped potential in numerous fields.” Fruge’s research focuses on how UAVs and UGVs can be used to benefit producers.
UAVs and UGVs can help address a wide range of challenges in assisting livestock management.
“The most significant benefit that UAVs and UGVs bring to livestock management is their ability to enhance data collection and utilizations,” Fruge said.
Improved data collection means better resource optimization. Meaning, producers will be able to enhance their feed and pasture management while also reducing production costs.
Livestock producers are using UAVs for tasks such as aerial surveys of pastures, monitoring herd health, identifying potential water shortages and invasive plants, and locating lost livestock using thermal imaging. UGVs are being used to feed livestock, manage manure and monitor animal behavior.
UAVs and UGVs also allow for the automation of various tasks. This can reduce the need for manual labor and lower operational costs, according to Fruge.
While there are many positives to implementing UAVs and UGVs into a livestock operation, there are also cons to consider.
One of the main difficulties is the interaction between livestock and unmanned vehicles. Livestock can sometimes become spooked or fearful of these vehicles. This can make it difficult to collect accurate data.
It can also be overwhelming introducing these costly technologies into an operation.
“On the producer side, there are complexities related to data management, the relative high costs of implementation, regulatory obstacles and the need to integrate these technologies into existing systems,” Fruge said.
If producers are interested in implementing UAVs or UGVs into their operation, Fruge has five key pieces of advice:
1. Start Small: Begin with a specific issue that this technology can assist with.
2. Invest the Time: Learn about the unmanned vehicles and how they can improve the operation.
3. Evaluate the Costs and Benefits: Make sure that the benefits outweigh the cost of implementation.
4. Choose the Right Equipment: Select UAVs and UGVs that are suited for your specific needs.
5. Seek Expert Guidance: There are experts available to answer any questions you may have about unmanned vehicles. Reach out for help when needed.
UAVs and UGVs can be extraordinary assets to a livestock operation. By introducing these technological advancements, producers can improve the health and productivity of their herd.
