Barns & Equipment

Globally, many family farms fell back on “DIY self-sufficiency” in the wake of infrastructure disruptions of transporting agriculture goods due to COVID-19 economics. The adage, “make due with what’s on hand,” is an undisputed fact acknowledged across all demographics this spring.

Small tweaks to facilities can get a dairy operating at its full potential, with cow well-being and comfort at the forefront. However, there are some common bottlenecks that can interfere with achieving success.

Fly infestations on U.S. dairy operations cost the industry and individual farmers significantly in lost productivity and feed efficiency and increase the risk of disease.

It is estimated that in the U.S., environmental heat stress in cows costs the dairy industry more than $1.5 billion annually due to decreased milk production, impaired reproductive performance, increased rates of illness and shortened lifespans. But what effects does heat stress in pregnant cows have on the productivity and health of their female offspring in the future, and how much might this affect dairy producers’ costs?

Removing sprockets and pulleys can be a difficult task whether they are on a straight-cut shaft or a tapered shaft. But while removing any sprocket or pulley, wear safety glasses and use appropriate safety items when working with these types of parts.

As a consumer, you demand fresh, wholesome, safe and high-quality milk. As a producer, one way to achieve those goals may be as easy as optimizing your automated milking system’s cleaning performance.