Farmers' Perceptions on Implementing Automatic Milking Systems in Large USA Dairies: Decision-Making Process, Management Practices, Labor, and Herd Performance

Simple Summary Automatic milking box systems are becoming more common in USA dairy farms despite being costlier than traditional methods. This study investigated farmers' perceptions on why farms with at least seven milking boxes opted for them, focusing on technological changes, farm structure, management, labor, cow health, and milk production. The primary reasons for choosing these systems were labor cost reduction, improved cow welfare, and enhanced milk production. Most farms constructed new barns with open stalls and easy cow movement to facilitate use of these systems. Farmers perceived that the adoption led to higher water and energy usage, while the operational costs remained manageable. Farmers reported labor savings, better working conditions, and more effective management of cow health issues like mastitis and foot problems. The impact on milk production and quality was mixed, with some farms experiencing improvements. Similarly, farmers perceived an improvement in reproductive performance, supported by activity data. Overall, the shift to Automatic Milking Systems was viewed positively by more than half of farmers, who recommended it to others, although they advised careful consideration of specific farm needs and conditions. These are initial experiences rather than conclusive evidence.Abstract Automatic Milking System (AMS) installations are increasing in the USA despite the higher investment cost than conventional systems. Surveys on AMSs conducted outside the USA focused on small-medium herds, specific regions, or aspects of AMS milking. This study described farmers' perceptions about the decision-making process of adopting an AMS in the USA's large dairies (>= 7 AMS boxes) regarding changes in technology, housing, management practices, labor, herd performance, and health. After being contacted, 27 of 55 farmers from large AMS herds completed the survey. The main reasons for adopting an AMS were labor costs, cows' welfare, and herd performance. Most farms constructed new barns, used a free-flow traffic system, and changed their feed management. Increases in water and energy use were perceived by 42% and 62% of farmers, respectively. Farmers estimated decreases in labor costs of over 21%, and AMS employees worked 40-60 h/week. Milk production increases were reported by 58%, with 32% observing higher milk fat and protein content. Easier sick cow detection, better mastitis management, and improvements in pregnancy rates were reported. Thus, farmers transitioning to AMSs perceived altered resource utilization, labor cost savings, and improvements in employee quality of life, animal welfare, and farm management. While 54% of respondents would recommend an AMS to other farms, 38% suggested considering additional aspects prior to adoption.