Innovation in sustainable livestock farming
WUR De Marke is a research and test site dedicated to developing future-proof livestock farming. Here, innovative technologies are tested and validated to promote emission reduction, circular farm management, and automated processes in dairy farming.
NXTGEN Handsfree Agrifood activities
Within NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood, WUR De Marke serves as a test and validation site for innovations in dairy farming. The focus is on data integration, automation, and digitalization to make livestock systems more efficient and sustainable.
Data-driven livestock farming and automation
At De Marke, advanced sensors and data analysis tools are used to continuously monitor cow health, feed intake, and emissions. By linking sensor data to AI-driven systems, processes are automated and real-time adjustments can be made. This contributes to more efficient and sustainable farm management.
Emission reduction and circular agriculture
Within NXTGEN Hightech, research at De Marke focuses on emission-reducing measures and circular agriculture. Data from field trials is used to accurately map emissions from manure and feed, forming the basis for developing innovative reduction techniques.
Digital Twin and simulation of livestock systems
At De Marke, experiments are being conducted with Digital Twin technology, creating a digital replica of the dairy farm. This enables the simulation and testing of different scenarios before they are implemented in practice, contributing to faster and more efficient innovation in the sector.
Test Site Capabilities – WUR Agro-Innovation Centre De Marke
Physical Infrastructure
Dairy farm and experimental barns for practical testing.
Advanced sensors for monitoring cow health, feed intake, and emissions.
Feed and manure management systems to optimize circular agriculture.
Facilities for demonstration and validation of new technologies.
Digital Infrastructure
Data platforms and dashboards for analyzing and visualizing livestock farming data.
AI-driven software for real-time control and automation.
Digital twin models for simulation and optimization of farm operations.
Cloud-based data storage for monitoring and benchmarking.
Expertise and Guidance
Researchers and data specialists support testing and validation processes.
Innovation experts guide the implementation of new technologies.
Collaboration opportunities among livestock farmers, technology companies, and knowledge institutions.
Want to learn more about testing and validation of Innovation Package 1?
Within NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood, innovations are tested and optimized to take the next step toward practical application. Curious about the possibilities and how use cases drive innovations forward? Our innovation package leader Natalie Hotrum is happy to tell you more.