Keys to Success
Like all undertakings, investing in hoop structures requires careful consideration of several critical factors. Research, along with producer experience, suggest the following keys for success in mangaging hoop structures. Scroll down to read the complete list, or select another destination from the menu.
Management Keys for Success in Hoop Structures
- Bedding, bedding, and more bedding. Dry bedding is the main key to success. Finishing cattle in hoops requires an average of approximately 5-6 lbs of corn stalk (or other dry) bedding per head per day. Bedding use is fairly consistent throughout the year and is more influenced by humidity and cattle size (manure production) than by season. Manure management is achieved solely with bedding addition. Be prepared to add dry bedding as necessary to maintain good floor conditions and prevent carrying manure tag on the cattle.
- Cleaning. Frequent (weekly or more often) cleaning of the apron along the feed bunk will be required. Away from the feed bunk, the bedding pack may be allowed to accumulate through the finishing period. Note that as confinement buildings, no discharge of manure or outdoor stockpiling of manure is allowed by Iowa rules. Check other confinement manure rules at http://www.iowadnr.gov/afo/confine1.html
- Keen observation. Observing individual animals can be more difficult with animals grouped in the smaller confined space. Walking through the cattle may be necessary for daily monitoring.
- Water. Waterers need to be equipped to handle sub-freezing temperatures. Indoor temperature will be within a couple degrees of outdoor temperature.
- Fresh air. Hoop structures are naturally ventilated, unheated facilities. Closing the building too tightly will result in high humidity and poor air quality. Provide wind break protection from prevailing winter wind, but do not try to hold heat in the building. Open the building completely for maximum ventilation in the summer.