Rancher advocates technology’s role in modern grazing practices

At the recent virtual Stockmanship and Stewardship event held on 7 November, Meredith Ellis, a rancher from G Bar C Ranch in Rosston, Texas, shared her insights on the vital role of technology in modern grazing practices. Ellis, who emphasised the importance of flexibility in her grazing plan, noted that adapting to daily environmental changes is essential for effective ranch management. “Context is so important in day-to-day observations, and a high degree of flexibility is key,” she explained, highlighting a philosophy that prioritises nature’s dynamics over rigid planning.

Joining Ellis on the panel were Justin Hossfeld of Envu and grazing consultant Steve Saunders. The trio discussed how emerging technologies can transform traditional ranching operations, making them more efficient and environmentally sustainable. Ellis described her ranch as a “living laboratory” and explained how collaboration with technology providers has benefited her operation. Speaking to the audience, she asserted, “When it comes to technology, collaboration is key. (Technology) has greatly benefited us.”

One such technology she is trialling is Enriched Ag, which employs innovative methods to enhance data collection on grazing conditions. Despite not being compensated for using this technology, Ellis expressed enthusiasm for its potential. “Many of what ended up being the most beneficial collaborations started out as having no perceived benefit to me, really, yet ended up helping us manage in unexpected ways,” she said. This approach has enabled her to explore above-ground biodiversity through various research initiatives while correlating that data with below-ground soil samples.

Ellis underscored the significance of soil health principles for her ranch, favouring observation-based strategies over prescriptive methods. This flexibility is reflected in their management choices, which may include alternative practices such as no-till farming or extended rest periods for grazing lands. This philosophy extends to forested areas of the ranch, where the interaction between cattle and stunted tree canopies illustrates the benefits of careful management. She stated, “Maintaining a living root is important to G Bar C, and the benefits that come from it can be seen in drought and flood resiliency and water quality in the ranch’s native pastures.”

However, Ellis also highlighted the unpredictability of ranching, citing various threats such as invasive species and extreme weather events that can drastically impact operations. “The best laid plans often go awry,” she warned, citing concerns over population dynamics and climatic conditions.

At the forefront of innovation is the technology from Enriched Ag, which comprises a mounted camera system on Ellis’s utility vehicle. This system captures images every 10 seconds, generating real-time data on biodiversity and biomass alongside satellite imagery. “It records biodiversity and biomass and couples that on the ground data to real, real-time satellite imagery,” she noted, allowing for informed decision-making regarding cattle management.

The insights gained from this technology enable Ellis to make crucial evaluations about her operation, including whether to supplement feed or adjust cattle numbers based on predicted forage availability. “It shares accurate and timely data. It allows me to see patterns over time,” she explained, expressing excitement about using the data for retrospective analysis.

Water management remains another critical aspect of her ranching strategy, with the technology supporting a more versatile approach. “It lends itself to a high degree of flexibility and accounts for those daily adjustments that so often need to be made in the best interest of my operation,” she added.

In conclusion, Ellis believes that harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and real-time imagery could significantly alter the landscape of ranch management, presenting opportunities for enhanced efficiency and sustainability in the industry. With advancements in technology like those offered by Enriched Ag, ranchers are poised to navigate the complexities of modern agricultural challenges.

Source: Noah Wire Services