What is a Loose-Housed Barn?

A loose-housed barn is a type of dairy housing system where cows have the freedom to move and rest in a large open area, typically bedded with soft materials like straw, sawdust, wood chips, or rubber matting. These barns are designed to provide shelter and comfort for dairy cattle, particularly during adverse weather conditions or for specific management needs such as calving or dry periods.

Pros and Cons of Building a Loose-Housed Barn

Pros:

Animal Welfare:

Enhances cow comfort and well-being.

Pasture Protection:

Reduces damage to pastures during wet or extreme weather.

Effluent Management:

Efficient handling of manure and bedding materials.

Cons:

Capital Investment:

Higher initial costs for construction and setup than some other systems.

Ongoing Maintenance:

Regular replacement of bedding materials if rubber matting isn't used.

Space Requirement:

Requires a significant amount of space for effective operation.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Loose-Housed Barn?

The cost of constructing a loose-housed barn varies based on several factors, including size, material choices, and additional features. Typically, the cost ranges from $4,000 to $5,500 per cow. Factors influencing the cost include:

Construction Materials: Choice of materials for the structure and bedding.
Size and Capacity: Larger barns accommodating more cows will be more expensive.
Additional Facilities: Costs for integrating calving areas, feeding areas, and waste management systems.

Design Considerations

Key aspects to consider when planning a loose-housed barn include:

Bedding Management:

Type of bedding used and frequency of replacement. Rubber matting is low-maintenance while straw and woodchips require ongoing maintenance.

Ventilation:

Ensuring proper airflow to maintain a healthy environment.

Layout and Accessibility:

Design for ease of cow movement and farm management operations.

Success Stories

Part Two: Borrie’s Feed Pad How Barn Systems Enhance Innovation in Dairy Farming

Recognizing the need for change and the impact of weather on their farming practices, Michelle and Rogan Borrie decided to undertake an ambitious project – the construction of a new feed pad on their 500-cow dairy farm. NumatAGRI Construction was there to help design and build it.