From the CEO
Colin Woodall
AI, BUT NOT THAT AI
In our world today, AI is a daily topic, however, it’ s not the AI we as cattle producers are used to. AI in 2025 is all about artificial intelligence rather than artificial insemination, and it is quickly becoming a part of cattle and beef production. As with any new technology, there are pros and cons, but I believe artificial intelligence is here to stay.
One of the most impactful applications of AI in cattle production is in real-time health monitoring and disease prediction. Using sensors and machine learning algorithms, AI systems can track individual animal behavior, movement patterns and feed intake, along with environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. These data points help establish a baseline for each animal’ s normal behavior. When deviations occur— such as reduced feed consumption or abnormal movement— AI can flag potential health issues before they become critical. This early detection allows producers to intervene promptly, reducing any negative impact on animal welfare. For example, AI can detect signs of lameness or respiratory illness days before visible symptoms appear, thus enabling faster treatment.
When it comes to feeding cattle, there are companies that have developed AI-powered bunk management systems that analyze hundreds of data points such as feeding rates, cattle behavior, ration types and weather conditions. This information is used to generate daily feeding recommendations. These systems replicate the expertise of seasoned employees, offering precise guidance that reduces waste, improves animal health and boosts weight gain. As more data is collected, the algorithms continue to learn and refine their predictions, making feeding protocols increasingly accurate and cost-effective.
It should come as no surprise that AI is also transforming cattle breeding by analyzing genetic data and reproductive cycles to optimize outcomes. This leads to a higher percentage of bred females, healthier calves and improved meat quality. By integrating data from wearable devices and health records, AI can predict the best time for insemination and monitor pregnancy progression. In addition, AI can help producers identify animals with desirable traits such as disease resistance or superior marbling, thus allowing producers to make informed decisions about which cattle to breed and which to cull. This accelerates genetic improvement and enhances the overall quality of beef produced. Imagine taking the contents of a production sale catalog, add in current cattle market information, then in a few quick seconds have AI tools provide a
recommendation on the best cattle to buy along with an analysis of what you should pay to get the return you are looking for.
Beyond the barn, AI is empowering producers with datadriven business insights. By aggregating information from across the operation— feed costs, market prices, weather forecasts and animal performance— AI tools can help producers make smarter financial decisions. For instance, predictive models can forecast future feed needs or estimate the optimal time to sell cattle based on weight gain and market trends. This level of insight enables producers to reduce costs, maximize profits and remain competitive in an increasingly data-driven agricultural landscape. AI analysis of risk management tools and USDA programs such as LRP will
Imagine taking the contents of a production speed up your sale catalog, add in current cattle market ability to analyze outcomes and information, then in a few quick seconds have determine the best marketing
AI tools provide a recommendation on the best plan for your cattle to buy along with an analysis of what you operation. Despite its should pay to get the return you are looking for. promise, AI adoption in the cattle industry faces hurdles. High upfront costs, limited internet connectivity in rural areas, and the need for technical learning or training can slow implementation. There are also concerns about the confidentiality of your information if you use a public AI tool. AI tools can also“ hallucinate” by including fake facts, nonexistent studies or incorrect details. As with most technology, AI isn’ t fool proof. However, as technology becomes more accessible, experienced and user-friendly, these barriers are expected to diminish. In some ways, the majority of us are already behind. Many of you reading this have been utilizing AI for quite some time and are seeing it as a very useful management tool.
I encourage all of you to explore artificial intelligence and see if it might work as a tool in the management of your operation. One way to“ test drive” AI is to see it in person, so make plans to attend CattleCon in Nashville to see the latest AI-driven tools and discover how they could make your life a little easier. Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept. It’ s a practical tool that’ s already reshaping cattle and beef production in the U. S. By enhancing herd health, optimizing feeding, improving breeding and supporting marketing decisions, AI will be key to meeting the challenges of tomorrow while focusing on producer profitability and delivering high-quality beef to our consumers. If you made it this far, you need to know that I used AI to write most of this article. It wasn’ t fool proof, and it required significant edits and fact checking, but I was impressed with what it came up with. I also need to explore AI more. See you at the AI booths during the NCBA Trade Show at CattleCon.
6 NOVEMBER 2025 www. NCBA. org