Select Sires

Managing Cows for
Optimal Reproduction
During the Summer Months
Transcript of Select Sires' Reproductive Moment Program
on DairyLine Radio Which Aired July 3, 2003

We’re really getting into the thick of things in terms heat stress. Managing cows for optimum production and reproduction during the summer months can really get challenging in many areas of the country. Obviously, one of the most basic aspects of heat stress management is shade, but, it’s equally important to consider WHERE the shade is located. Cows are going to decrease dry matter intake anyway during warmer weather, but, if they are baking in the sun while trying to eat, it’s going to compound the problem. Therefore, shade over the feedbunk and water trough is extremely important. To cut down on unnecessary physical activity, feed, water and shaded loafing area should all be in close proximity to each other. Too little shade results in overcrowding as cows pack together in the coolest spot they can find. Overcrowding reduces the effectiveness of most any method of cooling. This will be extremely important in the holding pen and may require reducing the size of milking groups to cut down on turn time. Once shade is taken care of, we need to take a good look at ventilation. Many of our tie stall type barns in the north are designed winter warmth and may not be the most efficient structure to ventilate in the summer. Although large open freestalls encourage greater air flow, there can still be pockets that are cooler or more well ventilated. The cows will usually tell you if this is the case by congregating in the cooler area, which again will tend to result in over crowding. Fans can obviously be used to help alleviate ventilation problems but adequate size and placement is critical to success. Again the feed bunk is a primary site we want well ventilated. Fans should always blow with versus against the prevailing winds. Consider opening-up structures or walls as necessary to encourage air movement. Little things like where you park equipment, stack hay, or where you plan to put new builds or structures can impact on air flow to your cows. Air movement also facilitates evaporation if the cows are wet. So, use of fans in combination with sprinklers or misters are a much more effective means of cooling cows than either used alone. And last but certainly not least, water. Cows not only need easy access to water, but, the water should also be as cool and clean as possible to encourage intake. If you need more information on heat stress management, don’t hesitate to contact your Select Sires Reproductive Solutions™ Specialist.

™Reproductive Solutions is a trademark of Select Sires Inc.

Copyright 1996-2003 Select Sires Inc. Last updated 14-Jul-2003.

To order product contact:
Select Sires Inc., 11740 U.S. 42 North, Plain City, Ohio 43064 / Phone: (614) 873-4683 Fax: (614) 873-5751