Ventilation strategies for enhanced health and comfort
Proper ventilation is critical to minimizing respiratory issues, heat stress and ammonia buildup in heifer barns. Mickelson highlighted different ventilation techniques, including natural ventilation designs and mechanical systems. The methods listed provide unique benefits depending on barn structure, climate, and heifer age:
Natural ventilation
Designs like monoslope barns can harness natural air currents, especially useful when barns are positioned to capture west winds. This barn model provides steadier airflow without mechanical assistance, reducing energy costs.
Curtain systems
Automated curtain systems respond to weather changes, offering flexibility in controlling barn temperature and airflow. For instance, smaller top curtains can allow fresh air to flow in and gently circulate downwards, enhancing airflow for heifers even during colder months.
Positive pressure tubes
Calf tubes distribute fresh air along the length of a barn, ensuring consistent airflow. Mickelson advises pairing them with exhaust systems to help manage air outflow, preventing air from stagnating inside.
Tunnel ventilation
This mechanical approach creates a tunnel of airflow, with fans positioned at one end of the barn that draw fresh air through inlets at the other end. Common in hotter climates, this setup is gaining popularity in Michigan as it can provide reliable airflow during humid or stagnant weather. It is crucial to mitigate noxious fume buildup in these facilities as they are enclosed.
Maintenance and long-term facility management
Effective heifer management with facilities goes beyond barn design, it requires ongoing maintenance. Mickelson shared valuable maintenance tips to ensure facilities perform optimally throughout the year:
Fan maintenance
Fans should be inspected regularly to maximize airflow. Keeping fan blades and protective grates clean helps fans operate efficiently, reducing energy costs and ensuring heifers receive fresh air. Mickelson suggests keeping spare parts, like belts and bearings, even a motor, on hand to avoid downtime during peak usage.
Door and curtain care
Operating doors and curtains periodically prevents rust, debris buildup and mechanical issues. Routine checks can also extend the life of these components, reducing replacement costs.
Water accessibility and drinker maintenance
Mickelson emphasized the importance of ensuring that water access meets heifer needs as they grow. Upgrading or installing drinkers may also qualify for utility rebates, reducing initial investment costs.
Feeding strategies and handling considerations
Mickelson discussed different feeding setups, which play a key role in heifer comfort and training:
Feed rail options
Simple feed rails allow open access to feed but can be less effective at containing smaller cattle. Mickelson also noted that without proper containment, young heifers may wander away from feeding areas.
Feed trainers and headlocks
Feed trainers give cattle a designated eating space, while headlocks provide more control, making it easier to administer vaccinations or monitor heifers. It is less flexible of an option for groups with ranging ages as headlock dimensions need to match up with the heifer’s size. He encourages farmers to consider future needs when selecting feed setups, as this choice can impact herd management down the line.
Collaborative planning and funding opportunities
Mickelson underscored the value of bringing together all members of a farm management team—from veterinarians to nutritionists and even loan officers. These team meetings provide a platform for discussing all aspects of facility use and animal health, ensuring everyone’s input is heard. This type of collaboration can reveal insights that help farmers find practical, economical solutions to facility challenges.
Additionally, financing options and rebate programs can reduce costs when implementing facility upgrades. Programs offered by the NRCS and utility providers often cover power-saving equipment like fans, drinkers and lighting. Mickelson recommends exploring these resources to make upgrades more accessible and affordable.
Planning for growth and future farm needs
Mickelson encouraged farmers to consider their operation's trajectory. For instance, building adaptable stalls or choosing modular designs can allow farms to adjust facilities as needs evolve. Modular designs, such as bio-rail stall systems, can expand or contract to fit different cattle sizes. Making modular designs ideal for flexible housing arrangements that can accommodate changes in herd composition.
Tailoring facilities for sustainable heifer management
Effective heifer management through thoughtful facility planning and maintenance improves herd health, growth rates and operational efficiency. Mickelson's approach advocates functional layouts, effective ventilation systems and consistent maintenance practices that support heifer comfort and ease of operation. His advice emphasizes a right fit mentality—designing for each unique operation rather than seeking a one-size-fits-all solution. By prioritizing cow welfare, farmers can improve productivity, reduce health issues and build resilient operations
To access this webinar episode and others from the Heifer Academy, check out The Heifer Academy YouTube playlist or if you care to listen, check out the podcast. If you have a topic you would like to suggest for future webinars, share it with Cora Okkema, Dairy Educator.