Ventilation System to Minimize Airborne Bacteria, Dust, Humidity, and Ammonia in Calf Nurseries

Abstract

We installed a ventilation system that minimizes airborne bacteria, dust, humidity, and ammonia levels; conserves animal heat during the winter months by precise control of the amount of fresh air admitted to the calf nursery; and prevents cross transfer of airborne pathogens between neighboring calves by providing uniform air distribution throughout the calf nursery. Because of the effectiveness of air filtration and uniform air distribution within the nurseries, respiratory problems of calves were reduced greatly. Airborne dust and bacteria as small as .5 μ were filtered from the air. © 1992, American Dairy Science Association. All rights reserved.