Effect of Orchard Fans on Heat Load Amelioration

Summary

Excessive heat load in feedlot cattle occurs when heat gain exceeds the ability of animals to lose heat naturally, but this can be helped by an increase in air flow. 

This project investigated the effect of industrial fans on feedlot cattle performance, health, welfare and profitability under a variety of conditions.

The use of fans did not improve feed intake or reduce panting in the cattle and, based on the results of this study, it is unlikely that industrial fans used in these settings will reduce heat load in feedlot cattle.

Objectives

This project aimed to determine the effects of adding fans used in orchard farms on the health, welfare and profitability of feedlot cattle.

Key findings

• Animal panting, carcase weight and characteristics of eating quality were not affected by the use of fans in the feedlots.
• The probability model used in this project was able to effectively predict the impact of hot conditions on cattle panting.
• The cost of using the fans was $69.40 per animal, which equates to $0.95 per animal per day.

Benefits to industry

As there were no effect on measures of animal welfare, animal performance or carcase characteristics, orchard fans currently have no value proposition for the feedlot industry.

Future research

The reduction of heat load by other means, such as use of shades, pen cleaning and nutritional management are currently better alternatives for feedlot producers.