Chapter 6: Animal Housing Features © 2005 Thomson Delmar Learning. All rights reserved.
Key Chapter Concepts: Ventilation Lighting Gates and guards Surfaces Feed mangers and waterers Cooling systems Flexibility and expandability
Ventilation Essentials Barn orientation Wind shields and obstructions Sidewall height Openings in walls/roof Enhancements Tunnel ventilation system Bird removal
Lighting Essentials Light for worker safety Light for worker comfort Light so cows can see paths Adequate “night” for cows Enhancements Supplemental lighting for increased milk production
Gates and Guards Essentials Gates for sorting Gates for pen division Guards for feed alley Guards for waterers Enhancements Quick releases for easy opening Scissor gates
Surfaces Essentials Concrete floors are smooth Sharp edges are ground down Enhancements Grooves in concrete to prevent slippage
Feed Mangers and Waterers Essentials Food mangers are smooth 1 to 2 inches of water per cow Cattle guards to prevent manure infiltration of water Enhancements Ceramic lining of feed mangers
Cooling Systems Essentials Fans in summer Sprinklers in summer Shade for cattle Good ventilation Enhancements Heat stress reduction system of wetting and airflow
Flexibility and Expandability Essentials Thinking of future needs Easily modified facilities Enhancements Phasing plan identifying future facility needs