Pasture reader with GPS for grassland management

Farmer Piet Jan Thibaudier in Friesland, Netherlands, uses a zero grazing system for his 195 Holstein-Friesian cows. A pasture reader mounted on his mower measures grass density and dry matter via light reflection and GPS mapping. This data-driven approach optimises grassland management, resulting in a flatter milk production curve and improved efficiency. Despite high initial costs, the system supports consistent milk yields of 8,500 kg per cow annually. The innovation enhances farm productivity through real-time grass monitoring and spatial data.