A new back-of-the-barn innovation sorts cows more quietly and reliably in all dairy environments. The Sort my Cow Sort Gate from CowManager runs on electromagnets and springs instead of compressors and pneumatics, making less noise during operation and working consistently, even during extreme weather.

Even with all the available information, the challenges around heat stress still exist, and each summer we see cows struggling to maintain production and reproductive health through high temperatures and humidity across the U.S. While we know a lot about heat stress, there are still areas of learning to lean into and help support herds throughout the summer heat and humidity. 

Ventilation, cooling, bedding, lighting, feed and water access are the main foundations of cow comfort. Focusing on these aspects when designing and building your dairy barn will greatly enhance cow comfort, leading to better milk production, reduced health issues and overall improved welfare.

There is a trend toward increased stocking density in automated milking barns. Quite a few farmers have made it work and made it look easy. It has worked for them because they have the fundamentals right.

Running a successful dairy involves navigating a range of variables, such as breed, feed mix, barn layout, bedding type and more. There is one topic, however, every farmer will have to face, which has an impact on the function of the entire barn: manure.

Winter work days are much better for dairyman Cameron Turner this year. This is the second winter he and his family’s dairy will be milking cows with robots in an enclosed barn. Their new dairy was finished in the fall of 2023.

While Maine is well known for lobster, lighthouses and its scenic North Atlantic coastline, the state is also home to 140 licensed dairy farms, including Brigeen Farms in Turner and Castonguay Ayrshires in Livermore. As the leaves fall and the crisp autumn air turns to icy conditions, snowstorms and frigid temperatures across the Northeast, cow comfort, herd health and safety are top of mind for these two dairy farms as they prepare their facilities and animals for inclement weather.

To an extent, cows can handle cold environments if they are kept dry and if air speeds are not too strong. However, if barns begin to freeze, it can have a serious impact on the herd’s health and productivity. While freeze-related issues can be difficult to manage, ventilation can help alleviate them.

Cold weather can have a significant impact on dairy herds, and failing to address these challenges can lead to decreased milk production, increased health issues and lower overall farm profitability. This article explores practical, research-backed strategies for improving cow comfort during the winter months.