In a significant study published in the *Journal of Agricultural Engineering*, researchers have found that well-converted barns can offer dairy cows the same locomotor opportunities as newly constructed facilities, challenging the notion that only new builds can meet modern welfare standards. The research, led by Barbara Benz of the Department of Agricultural Management at Nürtingen-Geislingen University of Applied Sciences, analyzed data from 18 commercial dairy farms in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, over a four-year period.
The study, which monitored 633 cows and collected over 24,000 daily activity records, revealed that cows in converted barns exhibited similar levels of locomotor activity as those in new barns. This finding is a game-changer for the dairy industry, suggesting that farmers can upgrade existing facilities to meet current welfare standards without the need for costly new construction.
“Our results indicate that well-executed conversions can be a resource-efficient and welfare-compatible solution for updating dairy housing,” said Benz. “This is particularly relevant in an era where sustainability and cost-effectiveness are paramount.”
The study also highlighted several factors that significantly influenced cow activity, including pasture access, month of measurement, milking system, parity, and days in milk. Cows with pasture access displayed the highest activity levels, underscoring the importance of outdoor access for cow welfare. Seasonal effects were also noted, pointing to environmental influences on cow behavior.
Interestingly, the study found no significant effect of floor type (slatted vs. flat) or rubber flooring on cow activity. This may be due to the widespread use of rubber flooring across nearly all farms, which reduced variability in the data. Herd size and milk yield also showed no significant effect, likely due to the use of automated feeding systems that reduce the need for cows to walk for feed.
The findings have significant implications for the dairy industry, suggesting that farmers can achieve high welfare standards without the need for expensive new builds. “This research provides a valuable evidence base for structural planning and policy development in sustainable dairy farming,” said Benz.
The study’s results are particularly relevant in light of growing concerns about the environmental impact of dairy farming. By demonstrating that well-converted barns can meet welfare standards, the research offers a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for farmers looking to upgrade their facilities.
As the dairy industry continues to evolve, this research is likely to shape future developments in barn design and construction. By providing a clear evidence base for the benefits of well-executed conversions, the study offers a roadmap for farmers looking to balance welfare, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in their operations.