ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA, U.S. — The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is offering the second annual Information Technology Innovation Award, to be awarded in early 2012. The award is sponsored by AgGateway and Feed & Grain magazine.

The award celebrates technological advancements in the feed and food industry. Information collection, safety monitoring, remote/PDA tools, quality controls and automated systems all have become standard equipment for many feed processors.

Novus International of St. Charles, Missouri, U.S., was the recipient of the first award, winning for their AIMS technology, an automated remote monitoring system for vendor-managed bulk liquid feed ingredient inventory. AIMS, which has been implemented at over 500 locations, provides precise and instantaneous inventory readings for customers. A donation was made to the Global 4-H Knowledge Platform Project on Novus’ behalf.

Feed Energy Company of Des Moines, Iowa, U.S., was the runner up in 2011. Feed Energy developed the Nth Load, a computational-based model that helps with decision making and optimization of inventory management, ensuring proper supply to meet the demands of the company’s livestock and poultry customers.

AFIA said it would like to know how companies are using innovative technologies, including any benefits and results accrued. Click here for more information on the application process. The award is open to AFIA members only.

Finalists will be selected by the staff at AFIA, AgGateway and Feed & Grain magazine. The winner will receive recognition at AFIA’s board of directors meeting held in May, as well as coverage in key industry trade magazines and other news media outlets.

Applications are due by Feb. 15, 2012. Questions about the program should be directed to Sarah Novak, AFIA’s vice-president of membership and public relations, at 1.703.558.3574 or snovak@afia.org.