In the small village of Eggerszell, near Rattiszell in the Straubing-Bogen district, the Ettl family farm recently inaugurated a modern barn, which the owners say will significantly enhance productivity and animal welfare. Completed in late August 2024, the new facility measures 43 meters wide and 58 meters long and houses six rows of stalls with outdoor feeding areas.
Light, Space, and Fresh Air for Happy Cows
“The cows quickly adapted to the new space. Even before we finished moving them all, some had already settled into their beds and were relaxing,” says Christian Ettl, the farm’s owner and manager. Five weeks after moving in, the 90 cows in the barn are calm and relaxed, enjoying abundant light, spacious conditions, and fresh air. Although the herd is planned to expand to 150 cows, the focus during the barn’s design was on creating conditions that benefit both animals and people.
Modern Technology for Better Productivity
The new barn features state-of-the-art systems, including two milking robots that allow cows to move freely. This concept is particularly beneficial for lower-ranked cows in the herd, which can now access milking without interference. Wide alleys, comfortable beds with mattresses covered in chopped straw, and dedicated calving areas make the space ideal for animal welfare.
An innovative monitoring system, SenseHub, enhances herd health management with emergency alerts and stress warnings. “This system helps us identify problems more quickly, which directly impacts productivity,” Ettl emphasizes.
Record Milk Production
A focus on cow nutrition is one of the key factors behind Ettl Farm’s success. Every detail, from silage quality to the optimal dry matter ratio, is meticulously planned. Thanks to this approach, the farm reached a milk yield of 11,618 kilograms per cow in 2023, placing it among the top Fleckvieh farms in Bavaria. The current average has risen to 12,087 kilograms per cow, with 4.03% fat and 3.47% protein.
Investing in the Future
In addition to improving animal welfare, the Ettl family is committed to enhancing their herd’s genetics. Each year, they sell around 15 bulls and 20-25 heifers. Using genomic analysis, they have optimized the genetic potential of their herd. “We increasingly rely on our own selection without purchasing animals from other farms,” Christian explains.
Ensuring Health and Quality
Ettl Farm adheres to a strict policy of not purchasing animals from outside sources, reducing the risk of diseases like Mortellaro infection. By selecting their best cows for breeding, the Ettls ensure consistent milk quality and sustainable production.
With a perfect blend of innovation, quality care, and respect for tradition, Ettl Farm sets a benchmark for modern, productive, and eco-friendly agriculture.
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