Winter is approaching, bringing with it colder temperatures and seasonal challenges that we face on our farm. We can experience temperatures below 20°F for much of the winter season. Additionally, we typically receive 10 to 15 inches of snow each month from December to March accompanied by occasional blizzards. However, being accustomed to the harsh weather of the North Country, we are well equipped and prepared to manage these conditions effectively. The dairy barns have insulated ceilings and automatic side wall curtains, some with airbag curtains and the newer barns have canvas roll ups. Unless a deep freeze below zero for days the barns stay above freezing. When housed in close quarters, cows produce sufficient heat through the digestion of feed to effectively warm the entire barn.
The calf barn and transition calf barn built in 2020 and 2021, have a computer ventilation system designed to optimize airflow. The system controls curtains, summer
and winter air tubes and chimneys that are based on outside temperature, the system will also raise the curtains if heavy rain or wind are present. These systems allow us to set and regulate the desired temperature within the barns. In contrast, our older heifer barns feature manual curtains, which we adjust by hand. Just like the curtains, all of the barn doors remain closed with the exception of the feed alley doors which we close when the temperatures dip below freezing.
Our calves are more vulnerable to the freezing temperatures. Cold stress in calves can lead to weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to illness. To ensure their comfort and well-being, we provide calf jackets and utilize heated floors for our day-old calves. On cold days the calves will stay in this room until dry and then move to our calf barn. The indoor calf pens, usually bedded with shavings during other seasons, are bedded daily with a straw base and then sawdust on top to keep the calves warm and dry. Water buckets are filled with water heated by our milk taxi twice a day. All calves are closely monitored for signs of illness and treated promptly in accordance with protocols developed in collaboration with our veterinarian.
With the drier fall, the process of emptying our three manure pits was completed toward the end of November. Timely manure application is crucial, as we aim to spread it before the ground freezes to prevent the loss of valuable nutrients. By finishing this task before winter sets in, we also reduce the risk of overflow during the colder months.
Although spreading manure in the spring is ideal, spreading manure in the fall offers benefits including reducing the spring workload.
As winter sets in, we continue to prioritize the well-being of our animals and the efficiency of our operations despite the obstacles posed by the harsh conditions. The
careful planning and preparation that goes into these winter practices allow us to mitigate risks and maximize the effectiveness of our farm’s resources.
— Ella Shamus-Udicious