Improving Livestock Welfare: Innovative Grass Harvester for Mongolian Herders

Between 1999 and 2003, millions of livestock died due to malnutrition and parasitic infections. Researchers identified poor nutrition as the main issue. Students from Imperial College developed a horse-drawn grass harvester to help herders gather more fodder. The harvester, tested in Mongolia, proved to be highly efficient and cost-effective, rivaling tractors in productivity. It is designed to be manufactured locally in Mongolia, using readily available materials, making it easier to repair and more affordable.

What was identified as the primary cause of livestock deaths between 1999 and 2003?

• Overpopulation of livestock

• Lack of veterinary care

• Poor nutrition

• Harsh weather conditions

What was the main purpose of the horse-drawn grass harvester developed by students?

• To automate the herding process

• To increase the speed of grass cutting

• To improve the quality of grass

• To reduce the number of horses needed for herding

How does the new grass harvester compare to traditional mowers in terms of pulling difficulty?

• It cannot be pulled by horses

• It is harder to pull

• It is easier to pull

• It requires the same effort

What is a significant advantage of the new harvester over a tractor?

• It is more expensive

• It is harder to repair

• It is a third of the cost

• It requires more fuel

Where is the new grass harvester intended to be manufactured?

• Russia

• China

• Mongolia

• United States