In the endeavour to address water constraints, numerous local dairy farmers are turning to advanced technology to cultivate their own feed for their livestock. This innovative approach involves indoor vertical farming, where artificial intelligence and automation are integral to the cultivation process.
A key player in this emerging industry is Forever Feed Technologies, a company based in American Fork, Utah, and Hanford. The company has recently secured a substantial investment from local dairy companies to construct indoor growing facilities for dairy feed production. Notable local dairy companies involved in this partnership include River Ranch Farms, Bar 20 Dairy, Producers Dairy, and De Jong Family Farms.
The ultimate goal of such technological advancement is to provide local dairy farmers with consistently high-quality feed while significantly reducing water usage. Forever Feed Technologies has developed a machine that promises to deliver a competitive cost per ton of dry matter feed, making it an economically viable solution for dairy farmers.
The company’s machine, which is set to be installed in a retrofitted building on River Ranch Farms, is projected to save 95% of the water typically used for growing crops. The feed produced will primarily consist of sprouted cereal grass, with the potential for accommodating different forms of wheat and barley. According to co-founder and CEO Steve Lindsey, this highly digestible and nutritious crop could contribute to reducing methane emissions, an important environmental consideration.
The local dairy market in the U.S. has been identified as a key target for Forever Feed Technologies. However, Lindsey stressed the importance of addressing the ongoing drought issue, not only in California but also in the 11 other Western states facing similar challenges. The new technology developed by Forever Feed Technologies and its partners is positioned as a water-efficient and cost-effective solution.
While some experts have expressed skepticism about the economics of growing cattle feed indoors, supporters of this new endeavour believe that leveraging technology in farming is essential for driving greater production efficiency and cost savings. Dr. Michael Swanson, chief agricultural economist for Wells Fargo, emphasised the importance of implementing new technology effectively to achieve success in the farming industry.
Despite the potential challenges and risks associated with indoor vertical farming, Forever Feed Technologies and its partners are committed to exploring innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of local dairy farmers. As the agricultural sector continues to embrace technological advancements, the future of dairy feed production could be shaped by the integration of sustainable, high-tech solutions.
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