Improved lighting and ventilation systems for dairy facilities: its effects on herd health and milk production

Otter Tail Power Company and Minnesota Power in a tailored collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the National Food and Energy Council, University of Minnesota, Minnesota Extension Service, Dr. John Chastain, Clemson University, and Dr. Jerry Beehler, DVM, Lake Region Veterinary Clinic, Elbow Lake Minnesota, have been involved in a project to work with several dairy customers on improving lighting and ventilation systems for livestock production facilities. Proper lighting and ventilation is very important because it can provide the proper environment for many tasks including, office work, cleaning milking equipment, treatment of animals, health of animals. Energy conservation is of utmost concern in both lighting and ventilation applications. A good working environment is needed to increase working efficiency, comfort, and safety. Amounts of light will vary depending on the tasks that are being performed in the various areas of the milking or housing facility.