Centre helps farmers to connect digitally

New plans could radically transform dairy industry

- SHARON LIPTROTT

SRUC’s Dairy and Innovation Centre near Dumfries has stepped up to the plate with new, innovative technology to help digitally connect farmers in their work.

It is hoped the free to download code, unveiled on Wednesday, could transform the dairy industry.

Specifically-designed “farm-twin” is described as “a world first open-source digital twin platform” and it has been made possible through funding from the Digital Dairy Chain, part of the SRUC-led UKRI Strength in Places programme.

A five-year UK Research and Innovation funded project - with a budget of £21 million to transform the dairy sector in the region and uplift the rural economy, via grant funding and sustainable solutions - the Digital Dairy Chain offers any business or individual involved in the dairy supply chain across south and west Scotland, and Cumbria, a range of services to support innovation and productivity through collaboration.

Data scientist at the Dairy Research and Innovation Centre, Dr Mazdak Salavati, explained the new tech: