2019 December Board Book

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Robotic Milking Evaluation

BACKGROUND: Research studies have investigated the economic feasibility of robotic milking systems with varying results. Many of these studies have been done either in Europe, where the herd sizes are much smaller than in California, or with older, less efficient robotic milking systems than what are currently available on the market. OBJECTIVE : To provide a reliable, scientific-based source of information for producers in California so they can make better informed decisions when considering a transition to robotic milking systems. INDUSTRY BENEFIT: Help producers to make better informed decisions toward investing in AMS. Decrease risk of investing in AMS. Assist producers and consultants become more knowledgeable and accelerate the learning curve on investing in AMS and extension activities. This project may assist banks and lenders in having more information on the risks associated with lending money for AMS investments. Researchers: Fernanda Ferreira and Daniella Bruno, UC Davis Timeline: 2 years ( 2020: $71,407 and 2021: $78,190, Totaling $149,597) 2020 CMAB Budget

Request: $ 71,407

CDRF 2020 Proposed Budget and Projects