Optimizing Farm Facilities for Effective Heifer Management

By Cora Okkema

Managing heifer housing to improve health, efficiency and productivity on Michigan dairy farms was the focus of a recent MSU Extension webinar. The webinar was led by Casey Mickelson, Ag Specialist and Territory Manager with SE Agricultural and Commercial Solutions. Mickelson’s insights are essential for farmers aiming to design or retrofit facilities to support heifer growth stages effectively. This article covers key takeaways from the webinar to help farmers make informed decisions about facility planning, airflow optimization and regular maintenance practices.

Key facility considerations for heifer management

When planning heifer housing, Mickelson emphasizes adopting a needs vs. wants mindset. Not every farm can or needs to build new facilities. Sometimes, upgrading or reconfiguring current spaces can meet management goals without extensive construction costs. Here are a few critical considerations:

Assessing needs vs. wants

Start with the essentials, such as improving cow comfort and optimizing space usage. Then, gradually consider additional wants if the budget allows. Mickelson recommends evaluating what truly advances the farm's goals, especially regarding animal welfare and operational efficiency.

Types of heifer housing structures

Mickelson reviewed various structure types that suit different operational goals, including:

• • Steel hoop barns with vinyl tops. These structures are naturally lit and maintain airflow well but require more maintenance due to their vinyl roofing. This style may be the cheapest option for a new build but keep in mind that maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the structure may be more difficult, especially in extreme heat and cold.
  • Post-frame barns and hybrid models. While costlier, these are versatile and durable options. Hybrid models reduce nesting spaces, thereby lowering the presence of birds and keeping bedding and feed areas cleaner.
  • Monoslope barns. Known for maximizing ventilation, these barns have an open wall (often south-facing) that allows substantial natural air and sunlight, and protection against elements, ideal for Michigan’s variable climate. This solid structure, when built well and maintained, has durability and long use life.

  • Layout options

    Layout can significantly impact cow movement, feeding and manure management. Mickelson illustrated setups such as:

  • • Scrape alleys with bed packs. Ideal for operations needing minimal manure handling. They allow bedding to build up until cleaned, requiring fewer resources day-to-day.
    • Free stall setups. Effective for training animals in structured environments, ensuring heifers are accustomed to dairy systems.

  • Ventilation strategies for enhanced health and comfort

    Proper ventilation is critical to minimizing respiratory issues, heat stress and ammonia buildup in heifer barns. Mickelson highlighted different ventilation techniques, including natural ventilation designs and mechanical systems. The methods listed provide unique benefits depending on barn structure, climate, and heifer age:

    Natural ventilation

    Designs like monoslope barns can harness natural air currents, especially useful when barns are positioned to capture west winds. This barn model provides steadier airflow without mechanical assistance, reducing energy costs.

    Curtain systems

    Automated curtain systems respond to weather changes, offering flexibility in controlling barn temperature and airflow. For instance, smaller top curtains can allow fresh air to flow in and gently circulate downwards, enhancing airflow for heifers even during colder months.

    Positive pressure tubes

    Calf tubes distribute fresh air along the length of a barn, ensuring consistent airflow. Mickelson advises pairing them with exhaust systems to help manage air outflow, preventing air from stagnating inside.

    Tunnel ventilation 

    This mechanical approach creates a tunnel of airflow, with fans positioned at one end of the barn that draw fresh air through inlets at the other end. Common in hotter climates, this setup is gaining popularity in Michigan as it can provide reliable airflow during humid or stagnant weather. It is crucial to mitigate noxious fume buildup in these facilities as they are enclosed.

    Maintenance and long-term facility management

    Effective heifer management with facilities goes beyond barn design, it requires ongoing maintenance. Mickelson shared valuable maintenance tips to ensure facilities perform optimally throughout the year:

    Fan maintenance

    Fans should be inspected regularly to maximize airflow. Keeping fan blades and protective grates clean helps fans operate efficiently, reducing energy costs and ensuring heifers receive fresh air. Mickelson suggests keeping spare parts, like belts and bearings, even a motor, on hand to avoid downtime during peak usage.

    Door and curtain care

    Operating doors and curtains periodically prevents rust, debris buildup and mechanical issues. Routine checks can also extend the life of these components, reducing replacement costs.

    Water accessibility and drinker maintenance 

    Mickelson emphasized the importance of ensuring that water access meets heifer needs as they grow. Upgrading or installing drinkers may also qualify for utility rebates, reducing initial investment costs.

    Feeding strategies and handling considerations

    Mickelson discussed different feeding setups, which play a key role in heifer comfort and training:

    Feed rail options

    Simple feed rails allow open access to feed but can be less effective at containing smaller cattle. Mickelson also noted that without proper containment, young heifers may wander away from feeding areas.

    Feed trainers and headlocks

    Feed trainers give cattle a designated eating space, while headlocks provide more control, making it easier to administer vaccinations or monitor heifers. It is less flexible of an option for groups with ranging ages as headlock dimensions need to match up with the heifer’s size. He encourages farmers to consider future needs when selecting feed setups, as this choice can impact herd management down the line.

  • Collaborative planning and funding opportunities

    Mickelson underscored the value of bringing together all members of a farm management team—from veterinarians to nutritionists and even loan officers. These team meetings provide a platform for discussing all aspects of facility use and animal health, ensuring everyone’s input is heard. This type of collaboration can reveal insights that help farmers find practical, economical solutions to facility challenges.

    Additionally, financing options and rebate programs can reduce costs when implementing facility upgrades. Programs offered by the NRCS and utility providers often cover power-saving equipment like fans, drinkers and lighting. Mickelson recommends exploring these resources to make upgrades more accessible and affordable.

    Planning for growth and future farm needs

    Mickelson encouraged farmers to consider their operation's trajectory. For instance, building adaptable stalls or choosing modular designs can allow farms to adjust facilities as needs evolve. Modular designs, such as bio-rail stall systems, can expand or contract to fit different cattle sizes. Making modular designs ideal for flexible housing arrangements that can accommodate changes in herd composition.

    Tailoring facilities for sustainable heifer management

    Effective heifer management through thoughtful facility planning and maintenance improves herd health, growth rates and operational efficiency. Mickelson's approach advocates functional layouts, effective ventilation systems and consistent maintenance practices that support heifer comfort and ease of operation. His advice emphasizes a right fit mentality—designing for each unique operation rather than seeking a one-size-fits-all solution. By prioritizing cow welfare, farmers can improve productivity, reduce health issues and build resilient operations

    To access this webinar episode and others from the Heifer Academy, check out The Heifer Academy YouTube playlist or if you care to listen, check out the podcast. If you have a topic you would like to suggest for future webinars, share it with Cora Okkema, Dairy Educator.