Larresne: Advancing Artificial Intelligence in Pasture-Based Dairy Farming

The Larresne consortium was coordinated by Behi-Alde and brought together Kerixara, Neiker, EIT Food, Innogando, and the CR DOP Idiazabal. 

Throughout the project, strong emphasis was placed on applied research and cutting-edge technology through pilot trials in cattle and sheep farms across different areas of the Basque Country, with the aim of improving animal welfare and the day-to-day management of farms.

At the closing event, Iker Iglesias Egia, Director of Food Policy and Food Industries at the Basque Government, expressed his appreciation for the progress achieved within Larresne, highlighting the importance of such initiatives for the future of the agrifood sector. His remarks were followed by the official presentation of the project and its main outcomes.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of RUMI, a device developed by Innogando and regarded as the project’s “crown jewel.” RUMI is an innovative animal welfare monitoring technology based on a smart collar that integrates GPS and an accelerometer, enabling accurate measurement of animal behavior such as grazing, rumination, and resting. The system also provides real-time alerts and certifiable traceability, adding value for both farmers and the wider food supply chain.

The results achieved have been highly positive. While the project acknowledges that further testing and refinement are still needed, the RUMI device has demonstrated an effectiveness of 70–80% in identifying animal activity. Through data collection and the use of AI, it is possible to anticipate an animal’s health status and take early action to address potential issues.

Larresne thus stands as a project firmly committed to the use of AI in livestock farming, while making it clear that technology is intended as a support tool for farmers, not a replacement for their expertise. Its ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life of farming professionals while enhancing animal welfare, laying the foundations for a more sustainable, efficient, and innovative livestock sector.