Some of the science on which the strategies are based is still emerging (Dairy Future), while other practices are well established (Dairy Now). Students, researchers, farmers and public and private enterprises are encouraged to engage with the initiative to propose, test and monitor ideas and solutions which solve real world problems on a platform which allows for monitoring and extension of those outcomes. Exploratory research can take place at any scale and location, from small scale (Petri dish), to large scale commercial farm, here at Lincoln University to overseas with our collaborators. See our Project page for examples of our Living Lab projects. The Dairy Futures Farmlet prototype provides the platform to implement new technologies and explore outcomes in farm systems. Current Farmlet resources for the Living Laboratory include 24 hectare of irrigated, silt loam soil which has been subdivided into two farms, see our Prototype page to find out what practises the farmlets are applying. In the very first season starting in July 2018, 80 Holstein Friesian x Jersey cross dairy cows were selected and paired using matching age, breed, live weight and milk production variables and assigned to one of the two farmlets. We track and report their progress in regular farm updates and publications.