All aspects of cubicle housing detailed in new publication

Teagasc has published a new booklet titled ‘Cubicle Housing for Dairy Stock’. The booklet provides detailed information on all aspects of cubicle housing for dairy farmers.

The authors of the booklet are Tom Fallon, Farm Buildings and Infrastructure Specialist with Teagasc, and Francis Quigley, Teagasc Farm Machinery and Milking Machine Specialist.

Given that the vast majority of dairy cows in Ireland are housed over winter in cubicles, this booklet is a valuable contribution to the industry. It was presented to dairy farmers attending the Teagasc Dairy Open Day in Ballyhaise Agricultural College, Co. Cavan.

Pictured at the launch of  a Teagasc publication titled ‘Cubicle Housing for Dairy Stock’ at a  recent Open Day in Ballyhaise Agricultural College were from (L to R): Patrick Kelly, Killygordon, Co. Donegal; Philip Robinson, St Johnston, Co. Donegal; Tom Fallon, author, Teagasc Kildalton College; and Jane Sayers, Omagh, Co. Tyrone.

This booklet builds on the success of a Teagasc YouTube video titled ‘Cubicle Housing for Dairy Stock’ published by Teagasc 10 years ago, and available to view below:

The publication is a must read for any farmer thinking of adapting existing, or building new winter accommodation for dairy cows. 

Commenting on the booklet and the key information it provides, Tom Fallon said: “Cubicles are by far the housing system of choice for dairy cows in Ireland. It is important to think long term because cubicle houses are typically in operation for over 40 years.

“Most farmers appreciate the importance of providing adequate space in the passageways of cubicle houses. It is also important to meet the needs of cows by providing adequately sized cubicles and avoiding the temptation of trying to squeeze too many cubicles into new sheds”.

Cubicle housing needs to meet three key parameters: adequate space per cow; comfortable and clean cubicles; and provide adequate feed space per cow. There needs to be at least one cubicle space available per cow.