The risk of inefficient use and management of lights, ventilation and cooling systems on dairies increases energy use and electricity costs, but also decreases milk production, said Kevin Janni, University of Minnesota Extension Engineer.

"This risk is amplified during periods of heat stress. There are numerous heat abatement methods and systems available for both naturally and mechanically-ventilated barns. Are they working to their full potential?" Janni said.

U-M Extension and South Dakota State University will discuss this topic during the Friday, Aug. 1 workshop on "Evaluating Heat Stress and Energy Use on Dairies."

Extension Hosts Workshop On Dairy Cattle Heat Stress, Dairy Energy Use

Registration is at 9:30 with the program from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Enchanted Dairy, 17646 133rd St, Little Falls.

The morning will cover the costs of heat stress and how to reduce the impacts of heat stress with the ventilation and cooling system. The afternoon session will be an open-house format consisting of hands-on stations around the farm where presenters will share information on specific topics such as lighting, fan capacity and efficiency, airspeed through the pens, observing heat stress, energy audits, and sprinklers and misting systems.

This workshop is a joint effort between SDSU and U-M, and is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2012-49200-20032.

Industry sponsors include: Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Pierz and Sauk Rapids, Vita Plus, Centra Sota Cooperative, Elanco and Central Minnesota Dairy Profit team program.

Registration for this event is $20 for the first person; $10 for each additional person from an operation or organization. Includes lunch and ice cream. Pre-registration is not required, yet encouraged for a meal count.

Pre-register online at z.umn.edu/heatstress or call Shari at 320-203-6054.

If you have questions, contact Jim Salfer at [email protected] or 320-203-6093.