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Invited review: Compost-bedded pack barns for dairy cows
L Leso1, M Barbari1, M A Lopes2
1Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, IT50145 Firenze, Italy.
Journal of Dairy Science
|December 16, 2019
Summary
Compost-bedded pack barns (CBP) offer improved dairy cow welfare, comfort, and health. Proper pack management, especially moisture control, is crucial for success in these housing systems.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Engineering
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Compost-bedded pack (CBP) barns are an alternative housing system for dairy cows.
- CBP systems differ from traditional freestall barns by providing an open, cultivated bedded area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current scientific knowledge on CBP systems.
- To provide a comprehensive resource for producers and researchers.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature on compost-bedded pack barns.
- Analysis of factors influencing CBP performance and animal welfare.
Main Results:
- CBP can enhance dairy cow welfare, including resting comfort, foot/leg health, and natural behaviors.
- Udder health can be maintained, but requires careful management due to high bacterial loads.
- Pack moisture control is critical, especially in cold, humid conditions, potentially increasing bedding costs.
Conclusions:
- CBP systems show significant potential for improving dairy cow welfare and health.
- Effective management, particularly moisture and bacterial control, is essential for successful CBP implementation.
- While bedding costs may increase, improved animal health can offer economic benefits.
