FRIBOURG DAIRY INDUSTRY ‘MOOVES’ TO DIGITAL
Grangeneuve | 02.09.2021

Jean-Charles Philipona, Head Of Livestock Production At Grangeneuve

Three questions to Jean-Charles Philipona, Head Of Livestock Production At Grangeneuve

Why are the Fribourg authorities keen that the dairy industry is embracing digital technologies ?

The main reason is because these technologies improve livestock health. Lots of new tools has come on the market that let farmers monitor their herds more closely and take a more proactive approach to disease prevention, which in turn will cut antibiotic use. Digital technologies also make it easier for the dairy industry to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions because they enable animals to age out better and therefore prolong their productive lifespan.

Grangeneuve, the canton of Fribourg’s agricultural institute, is overseeing the project. Can you talk about what its role is ?

Our neighbor Agroscope, the Swiss center of excellence for agricultural research, and Vetsuisse, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, partnered the process. We selected a range of digital tools best suited to the needs of the project. These instruments include monitoring systems that track the cows’ health, nutrition, physical activity and physical fitness. There are also feed systems like the multifeed robot, as well as digital grass height sensors that facilitate enhanced pasture management. Grangeneuve also offers dairy farmers traditional services like advice and guidance.

Is the digital transformation of agriculture here to stay ?

Absolutely. Otherwise, one will not be able to mount an effective response to environmental challenges and global demographic growth. Fribourg wants to tackle these concerns head on.