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Dairy Pipeline: May 2006
Tina Horn
Dairy Extension Agent
Augusta County
(540) 245-5750 email: tihorn@vt.edu
This is not your conventional bedded pack! A composting bedded pack is a deep
bedded pack actively going through a rapid decaying composting process. It is
a natural biological process carried out under aerobic conditions. In the process,
various microorganisms break down organic matter into simpler substances. The
essential elements required by the composting microorganisms are carbon, nitrogen,
oxygen, all of which are present in a properly managed bedded pack. Optimal
composting conditions will convert organic matter into stable compost that is
odor and pathogen free. Achieving high temperatures within the pack is important
to kill pathogen and keep the surface dry. Maintaining a temperature of 130
degrees or more for 3 to 4 days favors the destruction of weed seeds, fly larvae,
and pathogens.
A composting bedded pack should be bedded with at least one foot of fine dusty
wood shavings or sawdust. The fine particles are easier to handle and mix and
will speed bacterial growth and increase temperatures sufficient to inactivate
pathogens. This space should be well ventilated to remove heat and maintain
a dry bedding surface. Sidewall curtains and fans are recommended. The current
recommendation is 100 square feet per cow if used for the milking herd. Less
space is needed for dry cows and more is beneficial for transition and calving
areas.
Once begun, the pack must be stirred twice daily to a depth of at least ten
inches. This removes manure and urine from the surface and incorporates oxygen
into the pack allowing for faster aerobic decomposition. If the pack is not
aerated, it will become anaerobic causing the decomposition rate to slow and
temperatures to drop. The pack will lose the ability to kill pathogens and may
also create unpleasant odors. Fresh bedding should be added every three to six
weeks, but will vary depending on the weather and surface condition. Hot and
humid weather requires more frequent application of bedding.
It is also important to remember that bedded pack barns are most effective
if used in a loafing lot system. It is very difficult and costly to maintain
a bedded pack barn that is the sole source of housing for a dairy herd. Cost
of bedding and the potential for mastitis is greatly increased in these situations.