Compost bedded pack barns are becoming an increasingly popular alternative housing arrangement for many dairy farmers’ lactating herds. Previous research has fueled the growth in popularity, owing mainly to evidence that cows housed in CBP barns had enhanced cow comfort, heat detection, decreased lameness issues, and, in several studies, decreased somatic cell count. However, producers […]
Ventilation is required in livestock barns to keep cows and other animals comfortable and productive all year. Ventilation brings in fresh air and eliminates excess moisture. It also aids in the regulation of seasonal temperature changes. A barn’s ideal ventilation system depends on the structure, temperature zone, and animal species housed. A naturally ventilated dairy […]
A dairy cow barn ventilation system must offer fresh air all year, but in the summer it is critical. Fast-moving air where the cows are resting to provide proper cooling is essential. Whether or not the barn is ventilated naturally or mechanically using fans. Whatever approach, the design should allow for maximum airflow. While 85% […]
Testing the Barn Ventilation System There are many ways to test barn ventilation. A common one is watching how the cows act. You can also use a wind speed sensor to locate problem areas with the fans. Even fogging certain areas of the barn can do the job. How do you know if the natural […]
Designing the holding pen with airflow and evaporative cooling in mind might help keep the cows comfortable. A cow’s internal temperature can rise rapidly in the holding pen without any cooling system. These heat abatement difficulties necessitate a more robust cooling technique for the parlor and holding pen. Each cow is allotted around 15 […]
The energy savings are significant when a thermostat with a 4 – 6°F difference between on and off is replaced with an electronic controller with a 2°F difference. The heater turns off quicker, resulting in less heat loss from the greenhouse surface and energy savings. For example, in a 30′ x 100′ double-covered greenhouse heated […]
Using a greenhouse environment control system or automation can greatly accelerate crop production. With this type of environmental control, the greenhouse maintains constant conditions that are most conducive to maximum yield.Greenhouses are outdoor structures used to house and grow plants. Greenhouses with poly or glass walls allow sunlight to enter, keeping heat from escaping. This […]
Did you know that within the initial 6 months of a dairy calf’s existence, half of its total stature growth and a quarter of its weight gain happens? The Dairy Calf and Heifer Association’s Gold Standards notes why the period following weaning is as pivotal as the weeks leading up to it. Hence, calves in […]
As the summer months give way to winter, we’re reminded that even hot weather has an expiration date. It’s that time of year when your barn’s ventilation system, wide open during the heat, needs a tune-up. As the cold weather rolls in, make sure your natural ventilation system is primed and ready to step up. […]
The focus on cow comfort has come a long way in the past 30 years. With this, facility design has also evolved. There’s no question farmers put a high priority on comfort and the increased profitability that comes along with it. This is evident from changes in stall size, a focus on ventilation, and […]
