Cow comfort through novel barn design

It is widely accepted that cow comfort leads to improved health, longevity, profitability and productivity of the herd. There are fewer lame cows, fewer knee and hock injuries, increased milk yield and healthy cows that stay in the herd longer when cows are provided with a comfortable place to rest. Rest can be op­timized through appropriate stocking density, stall design and ventilation and heat abatement. Understanding the importance of these elements in overall facility design leads to improved profitability of the farm and underscores the industry’s drive to continuously improve.