The real thing has real consequences!
When we began farming, we saw all the benefits associated with keeping our animals out on pasture. Keeping this in mind, we attempted to pasture our herd between milkings. This move proved to be too difficult and was discontinued as a result of the risks. Therefore, we understand the associative struggles that come with allowing the cows exercise in this format.
While there are many benefits to keeping our animals on pasture, they do not always outweigh the negatives. Getting to and from the pasture creates an environment that has high traffic, is prone to mud accumulation and the presence of small stones. These factors compromise hoof health and result in injured or lame animals.
In the Summer, hot days out on pasture result in the decrease of feed intake. This, combined with an increase of heat stress, results in a dramatic reduction of milk production. Over the past 30 years, the Sun has gotten much stronger. With ultraviolet levels much higher than what they were, cows are more susceptible to sunburn on their bodies, as well as on the sensitive skin of their udders.
In the Fall and Spring, snow melt and rain create mud puddles that cows urinate and defecate into. This water is then either ingested by the cows, or can seep into local streams and rivers.
In our North American Winter, we are subjected to very harsh winter storms and climates. These conditions are very hard on our live animals and creates slippery conditions which are very harmful.
There are many benefits to using pastures, but there still is a welfare and cost concern with traditional pasture use.
