Ontario’s hot and humid summers pose challenges for livestock and poultry, making effective barn cooling essential to prevent heat stress and production losses. The two primary cooling methods are air-based and water-based systems, with tunnel ventilation being the most...
Description
We're diving in to the components of freestall design by kicking off with a focus on facilitating a cow's natural rising and lying movements. One goal of freestall design is to allow the cow to rise and lie down...
Key Considerations
Feed bunks are commonly designed with either headlocks or a post and rail system.
Each option has advantages and challenges, influencing cow behavior, feed management, and facility efficiency.
Headlocks
Advantages:
Reduce feed waste by minimizing spillage.
Decrease aggressive competition...
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has introduced an innovative, eco-friendly solution for soil disinfection: the propane-powered soil steamer. This cutting-edge technology helps farmers effectively eliminate weeds, soilborne pathogens, and nematodes without the need for chemical pesticides, addressing...
The Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) has observed a rising number of cases involving unauthorized construction of pens, barns, catch basins, and earthen manure storage facilities at confined feeding operations (CFOs). These infractions pose significant regulatory and financial risks...
A well-designed dairy facility is essential for efficient cattle management, ensuring the health, safety, and productivity of the herd. At a minimum, every dairy operation should include a designated treatment pen and maternity area, both equipped with built-in stanchions....
Source: Government of Alberta
Are you planning to build or expand animal housing (like barns or pens) or facilities for handling, milking, or egg sorting at a new or existing confined feeding operation (CFO)? Are your livestock numbers or manure...
Source: OMAFRA
Introduction
In a dairy barn, floor surfaces must have a finish with enough texture to provide traction for the cow as she walks, yet be smooth enough to clean properly. In some cases, floors are so smooth that cows...
Effective barn ventilation during winter is essential for maintaining optimal dairy cow health and productivity. As temperatures drop, adjustments to ventilation systems ensure fresh air circulation while managing moisture, harmful gases, and dust. Proper ventilation not only supports cow...
Summary
Research investigated the effects of supplemental in-stall LED lighting on dairy cattle preferences and behavior. By testing three LED light colors—white, yellow-green, and blue—the study aimed to determine whether cows exhibited a preference for specific light conditions in free-stall...
