Importance of Housing
Why is housing important in dairy farms?
cow comfort, productivity, and health
Name two types of housing systems commonly used in dairy production.
Tie-stall, free-stall, drylot, rotational grazing (any two)
What is the main goal of a free-stall system?
o provide a comfortable and inviting resting area for cows
What is a key characteristic of a drylot system?
Open space with dirt or concrete flooring, often used in dry climates.
What is the main purpose of rotational grazing? (forage side)
To allow pastures to recover while maximizing forage use.
Name three key factors that housing should ensure for cows
Comfort, ventilation, access to food and water, waste management
What type of housing allows cows to be individually restrained but limits movement?
Tie-stall housing
Name two advantages of free-stall housing for dairy cows
Cleaner cows, reduced mastitis risk, increased lying time, better cow welfare (any two
What climate conditions are most suitable for drylot systems?
Low rainfall areas, such as the south-valley dairies.
Name one advantage of rotational grazing over continuous grazing.
More cattle can be supported per acre, better pasture regrowth, and improved forage quality (any one).
What are the three activities a cow should be doing in a well-managed housing system?
Standing to eat/drink, standing to be milked, lying down making milk
Which housing system requires fencing to divide pastures into smaller sections?
Rotational grazing
What are the three main criteria for a well-designed free-stall?
Cleanliness, comfort, and lunge space
What is a compost barn, and how does it improve cow welfare?
A loose housing system where cows can move freely; improves comfort and reduces hoof problems.
Why is a holding pen important for dairy cows before milking?
It reduces stress, improves hygiene, and organizes cow flow for efficient milking.
How does blood flow to the mammary gland change when a cow is lying down versus standing?
Standing: 3.74 L/min; Lying down: 5.56 L/min.
What is one major advantage of free-stall housing compared to tie-stall housing?
More freedom of movement, improved cow comfort, better ventilation (any one)
Why do most dairy producers prefer free-stall systems?
Lower labor costs, higher efficiency, improved cow comfort, and better hygiene.
Name two advantages of a compost barn system.
Increased freedom of movement, reduced hoof problems, lower odor, improved heat stress management (any two).
What are two challenges of managing a rotational grazing system?
Infrastructure costs and labor-intensive management.
Explain how proper housing design can impact milk production and cow health.
reduces stress, prevents diseases, improves cow welfare, and increases milk yield
Name one major challenge of compost barns and how it can be managed
Bedding management (requires frequent turning and aeration to prevent moisture buildup).
What are two common challenges of free-stall housing?
High construction costs, increased competition among cows, and less individual attention (any two).
What is a critical factor for the success of a compost barn system?
Proper bedding management, including aeration, moisture control, and turning the bedding regularly.
List two best practices for managing a holding pen.
Keep the floor clean and non-slip, provide adequate water and shade, monitor time spent in the pen (any two).