Farmers explore new equipment at agricultural fair

At the 40th edition of the Space agricultural exhibition in Rennes, several farmers from Brittany and the Pays-de-la-Loire visited to explore new equipment and innovations that could meet their needs.

Aurélie Besnard evaluates mechanical sweepers

Aurélie Besnard, who joined her parents' family farm in Meillac, Ille-et-Vilaine, last spring, is interested in mechanical sweepers equipped with a hopper and bedding distribution system to reduce the time and effort required for cleaning stalls. Aurélie and her father Régis Besnard evaluated two models from Tuchel, the Mini 3 and the Farm Profi, noting differences in hopper design and a price difference of about 4500 €.

Farmers consider robotic and innovative systems

They appreciated the ergonomics of the controls but had not made a purchase decision, intending to continue their research. The pair also considered a silage pusher robot from CRD, which uses a laser guidance system, eliminating the need for ground rails. However, they mentioned that renovating the concrete of the feeding table was necessary before investing.

New hoof treatment system draws interest

They also visited the stand of Ocène to learn about the Digimousse system for treating dairy cow hooves, which produces a thick foam spread on the ground. They expressed concerns about the current hoof bath's use of formalin and its health risks, though they noted the need to find a suitable location for the Digimousse system.

Cédric Tassé compares milking robot models

Cédric Tassé, a farmer in Péaule, Morbihan, who is planning to install two or three milking robots by 2029, visited the exhibition to compare models. He is considering Lely A5 Next stalls, appreciating their integration of artificial intelligence solutions, improved attachment systems, and better-designed milk distribution for calves.

Tassé explores cooling systems for barns

Tassé also plans to replace string scrapers with vacuum robots, preferring Lely's Collector models for their reliability and water efficiency. He also explored ventilation and cooling solutions for barns, noting the increasing intensity and duration of heatwaves in Brittany. He considered combining fans with showers for effective cooling, acknowledging the technical complexity of choosing the right equipment based on barn orientation, height, and open surface.