Abstract for: Developing A System Dynamics Model for Utilization of Greenfeed Technology on Extensive Rangelands

GreenFeed systems, commonly used to measure enteric methane emissions, are particularly sensitive to environmental dynamics because consistent animal visitation depends on reliable machine operation, feed availability, and technical support. This study applied systems thinking and system dynamics modeling to evaluate GreenFeed deployment in extensive beef and bison grazing systems and to assess how alternative management strategies influence data collection outcomes and costs. A dynamic modeling framework was developed to represent interacting subsystems of animal adoption, feed inventory management, machine maintenance, and technician training. Policy scenarios representing best-case and worst-case conditions, high and low animal adoption, high reward GreenFeed settings, and alternative technician staffing strategies were simulated to quantify effects on GreenFeed visits, costs, and efficiency metrics. GreenFeed visits ranged from near system failure (201 visits; -99% relative to baseline) to substantial gains in data collection (321,549 visits; +874%). Total costs ranged from $33,004 to $181,367, while cost per visit varied from $0.56 in the best-case to $164.27 under worst-case conditions. Visits per day increased from 0.13 in the baseline to 2.10 under favorable conditions but declined to near zero (0.002) when adoption and maintenance were poor. These results demonstrate that System Dynamics modeling is an effective tool for evaluating GreenFeed deployment and identifying key operational constraints in extensive rangeland livestock research. On-ranch measurement of enteric emissions has the potential to support the development of herd-level enteric emission baselines, support continuous monitoring and adaptive management, and identify opportunities to improve both production efficiency and environmental sustainability.