(WNY News Now) Nichols Dairy Farm introduces its innovative robotic manure collector system, a revolutionary move for dairy farming that gives farmers an opportunity to experiment with farming technologies of the future.
New York’s South West The Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock & Field Crops Program (SWNYDLFC) of Cornell Cooperative Extension is thrilled to collaborate with Nichols Dairy Farm on an educational session about robotic manure collectors. Agricultural producers are welcome to a free farm tour on Friday, January 17 at 1pm to discover more about the innovative technology used by Nichols Dairy Farm, which is situated at 220 State Route 243, Farmersville, NY 14060.
On their dairy farm with 250 cows, the Nichols family installed two Lely Discovery Collectors in 2024. These robotic manure vacuums are used to maintain clean freestall flooring while using less work. This experiment was partially funded by a grant from the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, which allowed them to assess the technology’s effects on animal health and farm economics. The Nichols family will share their experiences and research with the audience on January 17th, and CCE staff will be available to answer questions and spark conversation.
This free event, which is intended for farmers who want to learn more about automated manure handling, will take place at Nichols Dairy Farm, 220 State Route 243, Farmersville, NY 14060, on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 1 to 2 p.m. RSVPs can be made by texting or calling 716-640-0522 to reach SWNYDLFC Team Leader and Farm Business Management Specialist Katelyn Walley. Please be aware that the public is not permitted to attend this agricultural tour.
Cornell University and the CCE Associations of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, and Steuben counties have partnered to form SWNYDLFC. Their team consists of Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist (607-422-6788); Amy Barkley, Livestock Management (716-640-0844); Katelyn Miller, Field Crops Specialist (716-640-2047); and Katelyn Walley, Farm Business Management (716-640-0522). Employer and educator CCE is known for providing equal program and employment opportunities and for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and those with disabilities.
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To learn more about Cornell Cooperative Extension, get in touch with the Executive Director of the Association in your county.County of AlleganyLaura Hunsberger, 585-268-7644 or [email protected] County of CattaraugusKelly McDonald can be reached at 716-699-2377 or [email protected] of ChautauquaEmily Reynolds, 716-664-9502 or [email protected] County of ErieDiane Held, 716-652-5400 or [email protected] of Steuben607-664-2301, [email protected], or Tess McKinley.