WHEN it comes to data, try doing the numbers – such as 60 million animals run by more than 12,000 producers and tracked for the past eight years.
Then feed all that information into machine-learning models which are able to predict livestock growth.
At the same time taking into consideration weather events, climate changes and producer land management practices.
And when it all comes out the other end, you have a tool able to provide producers with a probabilistic forecast for pasture growth and availability, as well as the sustainability metrics for their natural capital.
A tool which might be called Foragecaster – and is.
Now, to translate all that technology and R&D a company called AgriWebb – the driving force behind Foragecaster – needs livestock producers from across northern Victoria to help implement its commercial future.
Currently into its second of a three-year developmental phase, project lead and AgriWebb’s vice-president of research and development, Dr Kenny Sabir, said the tool’s benefit to on-farm production lies in its ability to provide users with technology to develop numerous management scenarios through its AI-supported predictions.
Dr Sabir said the team is calling for producers to participate in a 12−14-month trial (until October 2026) to help them further improve the tool’s capabilities.
He told North West Farmer that AgriWebb is looking for interested producers to help out with the testing of Foragecaster.
“Joining our Beta will allow us to share your farm data with our university researchers,” Dr Sabir said.
“This will be anonymous, though they will see your geo location so they can make sure the satellite readings are adjusted for your area.
“We may contact you to partake in optional surveys or interviews to help us understand your operation and needs better.
“In return, you will gain early access to the new Foragecaster features when they are available, such as the rotational and grazing planner released last year.”
Further details are available from www.agriwebb.com/foragecaster/
