Shade & Cooling

Shade is the most important consideration for reduction of heat stress.

It is worth considering how these can be integrated into existing infrastructure.

The main options for shade infrastructure are explained in the following guides.

These balance the factors that should be considered when investing in cooling infrastructure. The right combination of cooling methods based on how the farm operates is the key to reducing heat stress.

For each option its strengths and limitations are listed and the keys to success are described.

These guides support decision-making around the best placement of resources, time and effort into improving infrastructure in paddocks and lane ways, the dairy yard and feedpads.

Alongside infrastructure, fan system design and/or sprinkler systems are also important systems to air cooling.

Infrastructure considerations

Herd condition

Consider:

• Your herd’s susceptibility to heat stress – low / moderate / high – based on location, breed, milk production level and age profile of herd.
• The walking distances for cows between paddocks and the dairy, and between the dairy and the feedpad (if you have one).

Feeding system

Consider:

• What feeding infrastructure and equipment is currently available?
• Is the feedpad surface concrete?
• Which feeding system is used?
• A hybrid system or a TMR system?
• Does the herd graze over summer?

Daily schedule

Consider:

• How many hours do the cows spend in the dairy yard before each milking?
• How many times a day do you milk?