4 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Livestock Building for a Farm
Agricultural production processes should be carried out under a controlled environment to increase productivity. Hence, the reason why people put up different physical structures on the farm. These buildings promote efficiency in production.
For instance, sheds are established to protect animals from rain and extreme sunlight. In addition, you put structures to protect harvested grains from hail, pests, and insects. It would be best to ask yourself questions before selecting a livestock structure. Continue reading to learn some questions.
1. What is the Purpose of the Building?
Livestock structures are used for various purposes. For instance, feeding, housing, milking, or breeding the animals. Determining the purpose of the building will help you identify its shape, size, and location on the farm. A housing structure, for example, should have enough space that allows your animals to raise and lie freely.
In addition, it should ensure they quickly assume all natural postures and movements. A housing shed should provide adequate clean and fresh air for your animals. The barn, where you milk dairy animals, should be situated at the center of the farm with other structures correctly arranged.
2. What is the Climate Like in the Area Where the Building Will Be Located?
Determining the weather and climatic conditions when deciding on a farm structure is essential. The climate impacts the materials used in the construction of the building. If the building is in a humid environment, select structures built using materials that are resistant to mold and mildew.
When these substances develop on the structure, they are capable of causing infections and death in your livestock. They contain toxic compounds that cause liver complications, reduced immunity, and productivity problems. Consider concrete floors and pavements if you have a limited number of animals. This ensures that the area is free of mud.
3. What Type of Livestock Will Be Housed in the Building?
The type of livestock kept will help you determine the height of the structure’s ceilings. For instance, if the building houses cows, the roofing should be high to enhance comfort when the animals stand. Furthermore, the height determines the space available and how easy it is for the animal to move around the shed.
Additionally, the animal type helps you identify the floor in your shed. Choosing flooring made of concrete and other vital materials would be appropriate. This ensures that the structure accommodates the animal’s weight without cracking.
4. What is the Maximum Capacity of the Livestock Building?
The structure’s carrying capacity helps determine the number of livestock to rear. This enables you to avoid overcrowding which has adverse effects on the animals. For instance, when animals are overcrowded, some are forced to spend time standing instead of resting.
As a result, the livestock sacrifices their feeding time to compensate for their lost resting time. At times, they cannot recover the resting time leading to adverse complications such as mastitis in dairy cattle. In addition, it results in reduced milk production.
Most people begin livestock farming for commercial purposes. Asking yourself the above question will help establish a building suitable for your needs. As a result, you will have a successful livestock farming venture.
