Alliance-funded research informs on-farm compost bedding pack practices for dairy cows

Compost barns help farmers who are looking for a system with less equipment, but good cow comfort, according to Farmtario.

The outlet reported findings from recent research projects on Ontario dairy farms, conducted by students at the University of Guelph, including Dr. Angie Wilson, who is completing post-doctoral research in the lab of Dr. Renée Bergeron. 

“Currently there are limited data and best management practices for managing the system in Canada,” said Wilson at the recent Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare (CCSAW) symposium at the University. Compost bedded pack systems have to be managed with daily tilling of the pack to maintain enough air in the pack to encourage composting.

Read the story: Moisture management is key in compost-pack barn

See a summary of the Wilson's research results: Compost-bedded pack barn management in Ontario: Enhancing animal welfare – Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare