SIOUX CENTER, Iowa - Extension dairy specialist Jennifer Bentley discussed automatic calf feeding systems during recent Dairy Days in Sioux Center and Spencer.
Bentley talked about the pros and cons of the automated system.
"Because computer software records milk intake of each calf, number of visits and rate of milk consumption problems may be noticed quicker when a slow down in consumption is recorded," said Bentley.
While group-housing is important for early social development in calves, negative behavior can occur. Calf sucking occurs and dominant calves take charge in group situations.
Management at calving time - regardless of the feeding system - makes a huge difference. Use a high quality colostrum, she said. There is less risk of respiratory disease if calves are introduced to feed at 10-14 days.
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Scour problems decrease with automatic systems while respiratory infections may increase.
An automated feeder works with milk replacer or with pasteurized milk. It's generally better to use milk replacer with the youngest calves because nutrient levels don't vary as much. Farmers who have automated feeders must ensure that the calibration is correct. They also should inspect delivery hoses and nipples. Fresh water must be available for the calves at all times and cleanliness is critical.
It takes eight minutes per calf a day to mix, feed and clean in a conventional system. It only takes one minute with the automatic calf feeder, said Bentley. If a dairy farm hires the calf feeding done, those wages can be applied to the system's cost. The farm family may their quality of life improve because of increased scheduling flexibility.
"This does not eliminate the daily walk through the calf barn," said Bentley. "And time must be taken each day for record management, but less time is spent managing labor."
Other research found that growth potential, which has a positive influence on future performance, is maximized. Heifers consuming more nutrients in early life may have improved weight grain, feed efficiency and long-term positive affects, she said.
Automatic calf feeders are expensive and doesn't guarantee that operational income will increase.
A difference exists between cash flow and net financial impact, said Bentley. The net financial impact in the budget focuses on all changes in income and expenses whether paid in cash or not and calculates the difference between the positive and negative impacts. The cash flow change only focuses on the sources and uses of cash.
