Who
Gerrit Hunnekink
Dairy Farmer
Where
Zutphen, The Netherlands
About the farm
180 dairy cows
Gerrit Hunnekink runs a family dairy farm with 180 milking cows. The farm blends tradition with innovation, using dairy technologies from Nedap. These include power feeders, pedometers, SmartFlow milkmeters, parlour monitor, and a separation gate, all of which have made farm operations more efficient.
"It gives us a reliable way to keep an eye on all our cows, ensuring we catch any issues early,"
Gerrit Hunnekink, an early adopter of dairy technologies, has experienced the impact of Nedap’s products on his farm. “Electronic milk measurement is invaluable. It gathers data, includes alarms, and lets me quickly check on a cow’s milk production via my PC or smartphone,” Hunnekink says.
Among the Nedap technologies, the SmartFlow meter stands out for its small size, no fluctuating vacuum during milking, low maintenance, and easy cleaning. Unlike traditional meters with mechanical parts that wear out, the SmartFlow meter uses a floater to measure flow, avoiding frequent replacements and ensuring smooth, wireless operation. “With the SmartFlow, we’ve seen consistent milk flow, unlike the fluctuations with older systems,” Hunnekink adds.
The combination of SmartFlow and the parlour monitor gives Hunnekink control over milk yield and udder health. The system allows quick checks on unusual milk yields, enabling immediate action. The data from SmartFlow is also used in discussions with the feed supplier to improve feed plans.
The new control panels in the milking parlour have made operations simpler. These panels allow for easy cow separation with a touch, similar to using a touchscreen. An indicator light provides instant feedback on milk yield, signaling potential health issues with color-coded alerts.
The remarkable efficiency brought by these advanced technologies extends beyond daily operations to maintenance as well. “The maintenance and cleaning of the SmartFlow are practically effortless. I can easily spray it down without worrying about any electrical malfunctions,” Hunnekink shares.
Nedap’s innovative technologies have had a profound impact on Hunnekink’s farm, offering not just operational efficiency but also a sense of reassurance and peace of mind. “Without the SmartFlow, monitoring the cows would be far less effective. It provides a dependable way to keep track of all our cows, ensuring we detect any issues early,” Hunnekink adds with a smile.
Gerrit Hunnekink’s journey is a powerful testament to how technology can revolutionize traditional farming practices. By adopting Nedap’s cutting-edge solutions, Hunnekink’s family farm has set a new standard for modern dairy farming, guaranteeing efficiency, promoting animal health, and securing a sustainable future for their cherished family business.
