Tracking animals in real time

7. Tracking animals in real time by D. Larraine Andrews A new real time animal tracking system is attracting interest from livestock owners, community pastures and research groups, says Bradley Smith, livestock technology specialist with Alberta Agriculture. The project uses active radio frequency identification, or RFID tags, to transmit a signal to stationary receiving towers installed in the Pole Haven community pasture. The unique animal ID and location is then posted on Google maps for access by the animal's owner through a device such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop or desktop computer. Smith explains that the system allows a producer to know where their animals are located in real time without the need to spend extra time on horseback or all-terrain vehicles checking the herd. Such physical checks are still important but the tracking system allows almost continuous monitoring and greater peace of mind, Smith says. Pole Haven is located just east of Waterton Lakes National Park in rugged brush-covered country where predators such as bears and wolves are often a serious threat to livestock. If an animal has stopped moving, it can be quickly located to see if it requires medical attention or has been the victim of a predator. Early detection of predator losses increases the likelihood of receiving government compensation, he notes. The system also helps producers locate stragglers during the fall roundup, reducing riding time and potential losses from missed animals. The project will continue in 2013 in the same location. Although the system provided an acceptable accuracy level for the 2012 grazing season, Smith says one of the main objectives in 2013 is to improve that accuracy. He predicts commercial applications could be available as early as 2014. The system is suited to areas such as community pastures where owners can share the technology costs, or to producers with big herds spread over large areas of rugged grazing country typical of the eastern slopes of the Rockies. A mobile receiver is under development for use on a saddle horse or ATV. The receiver will complement the tower system or can be used on its own at a lower cost. Producers seeking more information can contact Smith at bradley.smith@gov.ab.ca or 403-653-5136.