Identification of operational performance attributes for pasture measuring devices

Abstract

Abstract Farmers have expressed difficulty determining the performance of precision farming devices both before and after purchase. The aim of this study was to develop guidelines for operational performance of pasture measuring devices using a Delphi survey method with 25 dairy pasture management specialists. The eight important attributes of devices for use on dairy farms, as identified by survey respondents were: the device is easy to use; weekly data are available during high pasture growth periods; data are available within 24 hours of measurement; data are accurate; data are collected quickly; data are easily uploaded into third party software; the device is easy to maintain; and the device has been/can be calibrated for ryegrass/ clover swards. The attributes identified through this process provide measurement device developers with a design guide. The results also provide farmers with a list of attributes to consider when investing in pasture measuring devices or services. Keywords: pasture measurement, technology development, precision grazing, Delphi survey