As a consequence, the design and operation of such equipment requires increased investment in research and development to enhance their operational and performance characteristics (see also, Human and Animal Powered Machinery).
Livestock production, which not so long ago depended primarily on the pitchfork and scoop shovel, now uses many complicated and highly sophisticated machines for handling water, feed, bedding, and manure, as well as for the many special operations involved in producing milk and eggs.
