Compost bedded pack dairy barn management, performance, and producer satisfaction

Area of Science:

• Dairy Science
• Animal Husbandry
• Agricultural Engineering

Background:

• Compost bedded pack (CBP) housing is an alternative system for dairy cows.
• Understanding CBP management practices and their impact on herd performance is crucial for producers.
• This study focuses on CBP facilities in Kentucky to assess their effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize herd performance, producer satisfaction, and management practices in Kentucky CBP facilities.
• To analyze the impact of CBP housing on milk production, somatic cell count, and reproductive performance.
• To identify factors influencing CBP moisture, temperature, and cow hygiene.

Main Methods:

• Surveyed 42 farms with 47 CBP facilities in Kentucky.
• Collected data on herd performance (milk production, SCC, reproduction) and cow hygiene/locomotion.
• Analyzed CBP moisture and temperature using statistical models (SAS procedures).

Main Results:

• Producers allocated 9.0 m2 of space per cow.
• CBP barns cost between $493-$1,051 per cow depending on design.
• Benefits cited: cow comfort, cleanliness, and low maintenance.
• Increased stirring and ambient temperature raised pack temperature.
• Improved hygiene and reduced somatic cell count (SCC) observed after moving to CBP.
• Milk production increased, and calving interval decreased in CBP housing.

Conclusions:

• Compost bedded pack systems can enhance dairy cow comfort, cleanliness, and health.
• Management practices significantly influence CBP conditions and cow well-being.
• Transitioning to CBP housing shows positive trends in milk production and reproductive efficiency.