Author : Maghirang, Ronaldo G.

Summary : This study was conducted to assess practices on housing and environmental control systems in selected beef and diary cattle farms in the Philippines. A total of 53 ranches, 10 feedlots, six backyard beef cattle farms, and 27 dairy cattle farms were studied. It was noted that weather conditions were not being monitored in practically all farms. Climatic factors were seldom considered in animal-management decisions. It was also observed that the recommended practices on animal management were seldom considered in most ranches. Farm infrastructures and production facilities were often neglected resulting in poor herd management activities. Adequete animal housing was provided in most feedlots. The open-sided housing with galvanized iron (GI) roofing, concrete floor, feed and water troughs, and GI pipe or wooden pen enclosure were used. The animals are usually raised in group pens. In backyard farms, the animals were usually tethered during the day and confined in a shed at night. In dairy farms, mature stock were usually raised indoors or indoor-outdoors using either the free-stall or the loose-housing system. Crowding calves were also raised indoors in some farms and indoor-outdoors in other farms. On the other hand, suckling calves were usually raised in elevated calf stalls with slatted floors, sides, and partitions. As in feedlots, the open-sided housing with GI roofing, concrete floor, and feed and water troughs were commonly used. However, the loafing areas were seldom built with concrete resulting in drainage and mud problems especially during rainy season. Furthermore, it was noted that the systems and practices in some farms can be recommended for use in some areas in the Philippines. A list of researchable areas on housing and environmental control systems was also presented.