Background:
A large free-stall dairy in northern Wisconsin, with over 500 lactating Holsteins, was struggling with frozen water lines and inconsistent drinking water temperatures during the harsh winter months. This was leading to decreased feed intake and a drop in milk output during the coldest parts of the year.
The Challenge:
The farm relied on traditional, non-insulated concrete troughs filled manually. During January, daily ice-breaking became a labor-intensive burden, and water temperature hovered just above freezing. The farm manager noted a measurable reduction in daily milk yield per cow during the deep freeze.
Our Solution:
Custom-length heated water troughs with high-density polyurethane insulation, automatic float valves, and integrated thermostat-controlled heating were installed across the main barn. The equipment was tailored to the farm’s existing pen layout, running seamlessly along the feed bunk lines.
The Result:
Milk yield stabilized during subsequent winters, and the farm recorded a noticeable increase in daily water intake per head. Labor hours spent on manual watering were virtually eliminated, freeing staff to focus on herd health and milking efficiency.