Iowa Beef Center director column
June 2023
A Computer Wrote My Column
ChatGTP is an artificial intelligence (AI) program that has been receiving a lot of attention lately. I asked ChatGPT to “write a 400-word article in the style of Dan Loy for the “Iowa Cattlemen” on the use of artificial intelligence in beef extension and education.” Here’s what I got back:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way we approach beef extension and education. As a cattleman in Iowa, you know that the key to success in the beef industry is staying ahead of the curve when it comes to technology and innovation. That’s where AI comes in.
AI is the ability of machines to learn and perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as problem solving and decision making. In the beef industry, AI can be used in a number of ways to improve production, efficiency, and profitability.
One area where AI is particularly useful is in genetics. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI can help breeders identify the best animals to use as parents for the next generation. This can lead to improved traits like feed efficiency, meat quality, and disease resistance. AI can also help predict which animals will perform well in different environments, such as different regions of the country or different types of feed.
Another area where AI is being used in beef extension and education is in precision management. By collecting data on factors like animal behavior, feed intake, and environmental conditions, AI can help producers make more informed decisions about how to manage their herds. For example, AI can help identify which animals are most likely to get sick or injured, allowing producers to take preventive measures before problems occur.
AI is also being used to improve the accuracy of beef grading. By analyzing data on factors like marbling, meat color, and fat content, AI can help ensure that beef is graded accurately and consistently. This can help producers get the best possible prices for their products and give consumers more confidence in the quality of the beef they are buying.
Finally, AI is being used to improve the overall efficiency of beef production. By automating tasks like feeding, watering, and cleaning, AI can help reduce labor costs and improve the accuracy and consistency of these tasks. This can lead to higher yields and better quality beef.
As a cattleman in Iowa, you have a lot to gain from embracing AI in your operation. By using AI to improve genetics, precision management, grading, and production efficiency, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure the long-term success of your business. Whether you are a small family farm or a large commercial operation, AI has the potential to transform the way you approach beef production.
This was the first time that I used the program and I’m told that the program gets better as you interact with it and ask more detailed questions. So how did the program do? Yes, there is some evidence that AI can be used for genetic analyses. Also, there is considerable research ongoing on the use of AI in precision management. However, it may be a few years before an AI robot feeds the cattle and hauls your manure. This technology is transforming but like using a search engine, some interpretation will be important.
Look for us to be live and in person at several field days and pasture walks this summer. Be sure to check our website for details!
The IBC at Iowa State University serves as the university’s extension program to cattle producers. Our center comprises a team of faculty and staff from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Veterinary Medicine and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. We work together to develop and deliver the latest in research-based information to improve the profitability and vitality of Iowa’s beef industry. If you’d like to be notified of updates on progress of research projects or programs that might be coming to your area, please subscribe to our “Growing Beef” newsletter by following the link on our website, www.iowabeefcenter.org. If you have a question, use our “Ask our Experts” link. Also, feel free to call us at 515-294-BEEF or email us at beefcenter@iastate.edu. You can follow @iowabeefcenter on Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.
