Precision Feeding in Robot Milked Cows to Improve Feed Efficiency and Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Lead Applicant: Trevor DeVries

Research Priority: Competitive Production Systems

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2026/2027

Research Centre: Ontario Dairy Research Centre

Research Summary: Improving feed conversion efficiency has the potential to increase dairy farm profitability while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Automated milking systems (AMS), also known as robotic milking systems, provide opportunities for precision feeding by allowing individual cows to receive feed tailored to their nutritional requirements. This project will investigate whether individualized feeding strategies in automated milking systems can improve feed efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas production. Researchers will evaluate how different concentrate feeding strategies within automated milking systems affect milk production, feed efficiency, and greenhouse gas emissions. The project will also assess the potential economic benefits of individualized feeding approaches. The findings will support the dairy industry’s efforts to identify cost-effective strategies that improve production efficiency while reducing environmental impacts.