Photoperiodic Manipulation of Lactation in Dairy Cattle

Photoperiod manipulation offers dairy producers a management tool that increases efficiency of the lactating cow. The technique is cost-effective, simple, and does not involve extra labor or cow handling. It's as simple as leaving on the lights. Use of photoperiod to stimulate milk production in dairy cattle should be considered in all dairy housing.

This site addresses the following topics -

• Background of the Long Day Photoperiod method to increase milk production.
• Studies which summarize and confirm the stimulatory effect of long days on milk production in cattle in North America and Europe.
• Example barn, recommendations and calculation to determine the number of light fixtures required for your barn style.

Dr. Geoff Dahl conducting study