How a Proper Zero-grazing Cattle Structure Should Look Like

A well-designed farm structure should be able to:

• Reduce the cost of the materials or utilise locally available materials.
• Provide safety and comfort to the animals.
• Provide a safe and pleasant environment to the attendant.
• Lead to higher productivity and profitability

Selecting a site for construction of a dairy unit:

• The unit should be as near as possible to the source of feed/fodder to reduce labour costs of carrying the cut fodder to the cows and carrying manure back to the farm.
• Proximity to the homestead in relation to the biogas plant is also an important consideration.
• Easy access to the farm.
• Use of local materials for construction of the unit would reduce cost.
• Carry out regular maintenance of the zero-grazing unit while in use.
• Safety from thieves and malicious neighbours or even farm workers.
• Good manure handling design to  ensure  that  it  is  properly  disposed  of  without  being  an  odour  nuisance to  the  farm  and neighbourhood.
• Good ventilation is good for a healthy respiratory system and adds to the comfort, which is crucial for maximal milk production.
• Protection from rain, strong wind and hot sunshine. Where winds are strong consider utilising wind breakers like trees and buildings.
• Different animals need to be isolated from each other to avoid injuries resulting from fights and mounting to control breeding and avoid spread of diseases.
• Cow comfort is an important part of maintaining a healthy herd. Cows should be housed in well ventilated and clean cubicles. Cow comfort is very important to milk quality, and a priority for dairy farmers and veterinarians.
• Bio-security
• Provide music during milking time to reduce stress.