Social housing—raising calves in pairs or groups—has gained attention in the dairy industry for its developmental benefits and alignment with public expectations around animal welfare. Though not without challenges, this calf-raising approach is achievable with the right planning, monitoring,...
Natural ventilation plays a critical role in dairy barn design, especially in regions with hot summers and cold winters. By using sidewall openings, ridge vents, and prevailing winds to maintain airflow, naturally ventilated barns can provide a comfortable, low-cost,...
IntroductionEffective crowd gate use is essential for cow welfare and milking efficiency. Proper training, regular maintenance, and thoughtful management help ensure the gate functions correctly, benefiting both cows and dairy workers. Misuse can lead to stress for the cows,...
Agriculture Institute · Air Quality in Calf Housing
Overview of Dairy Farm Milking Centers
Milking centers come in various sizes and layouts but share common features.
Key components:
Milk Room – Houses bulk tanks, milk towers, and plate coolers.
Utility/Mechanical Room – Contains compressors, vacuum pumps, and...
Compost bedded pack (CBP) barns offer a comfortable housing alternative for lactating dairy cows, improving cow comfort, heat detection, and reducing lameness and somatic cell counts. However, effective management is crucial to maintain a dry, comfortable resting surface.
Compost Bedding...
Built for Farmers by Farmers – Engineered for Performance
The COOL Max Control System by Tunnel Plus optimizes airflow and climate control, ensuring cow comfort, increased milk production, and improved herd health. Designed and built in the USA, this system...
Importance of Ventilation
Maintains air quality
Regulates temperature and moisture levels
Ensures cattle comfort
Ventilation Methods
Natural Ventilation
Uses wind and temperature differences for airflow
Mechanical Ventilation
Fans control air exchange rates
Hybrid Ventilation
Combines natural and mechanical systems
Natural...
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...
