Automated dairy dosing system scoops top enterprise award

Magnesium regulator improves herd fertility and cuts veterinary and feed costs

AN agri-tech business which aims to promote animal health and reduce farm costs was the overall winner of the National Enterprise Awards in Dublin recently.

Terra Liquid Mineral services, founded and managed by brothers Padraig and Tom Hennessy from Moone, Co Kildare, is an automated mineral dosing system that provides minerals to cows through their drinking water.

The company was set up as an extension to Terra Services, which was formed 12 years ago by Tom and specialises in designing and installing water systems on farms.

Padraig, who previously worked in the business and technology sector, told the Farming Independent that they decided to develop the dosing system after receiving feedback from farmers that their animals weren’t receiving enough vital minerals.

“If animals aren’t getting enough minerals such as magnesium, it can lead to them developing deficiencies and metabolic diseases such as grass tetany. We had farmers coming to us, asking if there was anything we could develop and that’s when the idea came about,” he said.

The system, which is used by 250 farmers on both sides of the Border, is unique not just to Ireland but to the world.

It comprises an automated mineral dosing system that releases magnesium into the water system depending on the herd’s needs.

“We use algorithms that make sure animals receive the correct amount of minerals they need based on their water usage,” said Padraig, who added that the system has numerous health benefits for animals which lead to improved herd health, cost reductions and overall increased efficiency.

“When animals are getting the right amount of minerals, it means fertility is improved and makes calving easier,” he explained. “One of our customers told us that his vet called out to visit him five weeks into calving season as he was concerned that he hadn’t been called out. The reason he hadn’t been called out was because the calving season was going so well.

“So veterinary costs are reduced and feed costs are also reduced because farmers don’t have to use higher-cost nuts because they’re getting the minerals already.”

The brothers come from a suckler and tillage farming background and employ 10 people on the site. The business is undergoing a €2m expansion and has been approached by numerous potential customers worldwide.

Padraig said that his Local Enterprise Office in Kildare was key to them winning the award and feels proud that an agri-tech company took home the top award.

“Ireland is a world leader in agri-tech and to be recognised amongst the top companies is fantastic,” he said.