Lely to Showcase Its Astronaut A4 Robotic Milking System, Sponsor Virtual Farm Tour at World Dairy Expo

The Lely Astronaut A4 will undergo its first public showing in the U.S. in Madison, Wis., Oct. 4–8, 2011.

Source: Lely news release

Pella, Iowa —The Lely Astronaut A4 robotic milking system will undergo its first public showing in the U.S. at World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wis., Oct. 4–8, 2011.

“Although this new Astronaut is filled with innovative features, the most revealing is Lely’s vision to take dairy automation one step further, creating a product that allows more freedom for the cow, more control for the farmer and produces more milk as a result,” Lely said today. “The Astronaut A4 robotic milking system is truly the natural way of milking.”

Lely, a world leader in robotic milking systems, will also sponsor a look at Nor-Bert Farms, LLC at World Dairy Expo, Oct. 6 at 12 p.m. The dairy will share its robotic milking story as part of World Dairy Expo’s Virtual Farm Tour.

This year’s Virtual Farm Tours will focus on a variety of topics. Along with robotic milking, other notable areas include: land conservation and forages, technology and innovation, unique marketing, family transition, milk quality, reproductive success and transition cow management.

“We are very excited to introduce attendees at this year’s World Dairy Expo with an industry-leading dairy, such as Nor-Bert Farms,” said Peter Langebeeke, president of Lely USA Inc. “Nor-Bert Farms is a perfect example of how embracing the future through robotic milking can improve every aspect of life ? from increased milk production to family lifestyle.”

Family-owned and operated, Nor-Bert Farms currently milks 140 cows with a rolling herd average of 27,619 lb. With the modernization of their facilities through the introduction of the Lely Astronaut robotic milking system in 2010, Nor-Bert Farms has increased overall productivity and animal well-being. Additionally, more flexible work schedules have allowed the farm to continue to grow as the family grows.

The Virtual Farm Tour will take place at World Dairy Expo in the Exhibition Hall in the Mendota 1 meeting room and is free to attend. During the Tour, Nor-Bert Farms will present an illustrative view of their farming operation, including general operation information and management practices. Questions will be welcomed at the end of the presentation. Video of the Virtual Farm Tour will be available following the show by visiting www.worlddairyexpo.com.  

For more information on Lely’s Astronaut A4 robotic milking system, visit www.thenaturalwayofmilking.com.