Barns & Equipment

Robots are more and more popular in today’s dairy operations. Producers are looking for ways to increase the size of their herd, increase milk production per cow and improve the quality of life.

In the last few years, a number of teat-scrubbing technologies have been released in the marketplace. Progressive Dairyman reached out to several manufacturers or marketers of this equipment to learn what is attracting the initial purchasers as well as what might be holding some interested parties back.

To improve cow comfort, health and milk production in the following lactation, dry cow management needs to include truly short day length as well as effective heat stress prevention. Done right, this approach allows cows and heifers to more fully express their genetic capacity to produce milk.

When the Henschel family of Manawa, Wisconsin, built a freestall barn for robots last year, they could not stand the thought of the former tiestall barn sitting empty. After a thorough gutting and renovation, the barn has a renewed purpose for calves, dry cows and maternity.

Not too long ago in this column, we discussed some of the different ways we cut metal in and around our farm shops; therefore, I thought it reasonable we talk about some of the ways to repair metal that either was cut by accident or broke outright on its own.

During challenging times, dairy producers are thinking about ways to improve their situation and maximize the benefits of the investments already in place, like long-day lighting (LDL) systems. While known to boost milk production, some dairy producers may not realize the payback on LDL only happens with proper timing of lights and recommended management for both lactating and dry cows.