Did you know that around 20–25% of your total energy expenses come from your farm’s ventilation systems? This data comes from Dan McFarland, a renowned agricultural engineer at Pennsylvania State University. Hence, if you’ve noticed a spike in your electricity bill lately, it’s likely due to the fans you’re using. However, you cannot just shut […]
Shielding young calves from winter weather can be challenging. Sometimes, attempts to protect them from harsh winds and frigid temperatures can unintentionally disrupt proper airflow. This usually results in compromised air quality. What’s worse is that it can increase the risk of pneumonia. Therefore, you’re treading a fine line if your goal is to maintain […]
As the calendar pages flip, we once again hit that season—the air turns cold, and the moisture begins to creep in. Dairy producers sprint to draw their facility curtains to guard against the cold. Indeed, the natural response to that chilly breeze is to pull the curtains closed and seal up those barns. But here’s […]
Humans and calves are more similar than we think. Do you know that there is research to support the advantages of raising calves in pairs? Jennifer Van Os, a faculty member at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, highlights the need to do so. Van Os believes that when calves grow up with a companion, they exhibit […]
No two calf facilities are alike. Its variations can range from size to shape. It is crucial to customize your facilities because what works for one producer might not be enough for another. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Such customization must take into account particular demands and requirements. However, it’s not all about customization. There […]
Have you ever dashed into the barn office on a freezing farm day to escape the biting cold? That sudden warmth is an instant mood lifter, isn’t it? Newborn calves feel the same way. Newborn dairy calves are vulnerable in the cold since they have only 2–4% body fat. That’s why warming rooms and commercial […]
In the past four decades, we’ve seen a massive leap in milk production per cow. These are all thanks to nutrition, genetics, and even management innovations. But let’s not kid ourselves; it’s a double-edged sword. Sure, we’re seeing bumper milk yields, but we’re also witnessing increased heat stress issues among lactating and close-up cows. This […]
In the last few years, heat stress management has taken the spotlight in the dairy industry. Global warming is cranking up the thermostat. As a result, we experience relentless heat waves—and not just where we expect them. It’s shifting the climate playbook globally. For instance, let’s take a look at Israel. In some areas […]
Farmers dream of harvesting crops multiple times a year, not just once. And guess what? There’s a way to do it! It’s all about controlling the light in your greenhouse. Imagine being able to trick your plants into thinking it’s time to flower, not once, but several times in one year. This could lead […]
We all know the relief of a breeze hitting our sweaty skin on a hot day, instantly cooling us down. That is evaporative cooling – a natural process we experience firsthand. But here’s a fun fact: this process isn’t limited to just us humans; it can also be a game-changer in keeping your greenhouse cool. […]
