Automated Feeding
Consistent feeding schedules can make a repetitive chore easier. We are interested in straightforward feeders and timers that do their job reliably.
Built on the farm
Technology on a Small Farm
We build, try and share practical tools that help small farms use technology on their own terms.
The real question
Can a small farm do more with tools it can actually afford?
Large operations have spent decades using automation, sensors and connected equipment. We are interested in what a family farm can do with accessible consumer technology and a willingness to experiment.
We start with a chore: feeding animals, checking a gate, monitoring a space or keeping records. Then we ask whether a simple tool saves time, works reliably and leaves more attention for the animals and the land.
Working farm software
Try our farm management app.
We built Farmhand for managing sheep, chickens and horses. It is a hands-on example of the technology side of Round Valley Farms—and a way to show what a small farm can build for itself.
Open FarmhandOpens the live app in a new tab.
Where technology can help
Small problems, useful experiments.
Cameras & Monitoring
A camera can answer a small question without a long walk: are the animals where they should be, and does everything look normal?
Gates & Access
A gate opened remotely can save time during ordinary movement around a property. Simple access systems are one area we are exploring.
Sensors & Data
Weather, soil, temperature and other environmental observations can help turn a hunch into a better informed decision.
Farm Software
Farmhand is a live management app for sheep, chickens and horses. We are exploring what other farm information could connect over time.
Experiments & What’s Next
Some inexpensive ideas will work. Others will not. We keep what makes farming easier and leave the rest behind.
“We’re not trying to build the farm of 2050. We’re trying to make tomorrow’s chores slightly easier than today’s.”
What is installed
Show the work.
We are documenting the physical systems installed on the farm. Confirmed devices and what they do will appear here as that information is collected.
Experimental / roadmap
Building the Digital Farm
Farmhand is live. Ideas for a broader internal farm platform are still experimental and are listed here as possible future work.
Equipment statusCamera linksGate statusFarm task trackingPlanting recordsGarlic harvest recordsWeather informationSoil observationsMaintenance reminders