Smart farming in the dairy sector - technology, AI and the future

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle explores how SMART farming is reshaping the UK dairy sector. From herd management to sustainability and automation, Ben is joined by a panel of farmers and agri-tech experts to discuss how digital tools, data, and intelligent systems are helping dairy businesses become more efficient, resilient, and future-ready.Together, the panel examines real-life examples of SMART farming in action, the benefits and barriers of adopting new technologies, and the innovations on the horizon. Whether it's camera technology, AI, slurry monitoring, or pasture measurement, this episode is packed with practical insights into the future of dairy farming.👥 GuestsBen HoggUK & Ireland General Manager, Datamars LivestockBen brings a tech supplier’s perspective, discussing how connected livestock systems and data-driven tools are enabling better decision-making and improving livestock health and productivity.Mike JonesDairy Technical Manager, UK Agritech CentreMike shares a national overview of agri-innovation in the dairy sector, highlighting where adoption is thriving and where farmers still face challenges when integrating new technologies.Patrick Morris-EytonCumbrian Dairy Farmer & Arla District RepresentativePatrick manages a high-input, high-output system with 900 pedigree Holsteins. He reflects on how SMART farming supports consistency, scale, and staff management on a large dairy farm.Adam AtkinsonFarm Manager, Caulston Farm (Carswell Group), South DevonAdam runs a spring block calving system with 600 Kiwicross cows on a grass-based setup. He shares how digital tools like grass measurement and herd monitoring enhance sustainability and performance.📌 Key TopicsSMART farming explainedDigital herd managementSustainability and efficiency through techPractical farm experiences (large-scale vs. pasture-based)Automation, AI, and the future of dairyCultural and financial barriers to tech adoption🔗 Resources & LinksDatamars Livestock – www.datamars.comUK Agritech Centre – www.agritech-centre.co.uk🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content.Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. About Ben and  RuralPod MediaBen Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message. Please subscribe to the show and leave us a review wherever you are listening. Follow us on social mediaInstagram @mtf_podcastTwitter @mtf_podcastWatch us on Youtube here