I recently had the opportunity and privilege to work with True Farms in New York, documenting their transition from an acidified waste milk feeding system for calves to a computerized feeding system where they feed milk replacer. The folks at True Farms opened their farm to my intrusions with camera, sound and lighting equipment. Thanks to their gracious accommodations I was able to produce “Building a strong future.”
Farm Background
Several years ago, True Farms moved from an outside hutch system for calves to an acidified waste group milk feeding system. A barn was retrofitted for calves, including installation of positive pressure ventilation. This system required a large amount of labor, leading to a high rate of management turnover.
The decision was made to build a new calf facility. The barn is an open design with chimneys, sidewall curtains and fans. Sensors monitor environmental conditions, providing inputs that control the curtains and fans. In addition, the floor is sloped and grooved to drain urine, ammonia and moisture away from calves, creating a very pleasant environment. Although barn design allows for different housing and feeding options, the present setup is group pens utilizing computerized feeding of milk replacer.
This movie captures highlights of both systems and demonstrates the effects that changes in housing, environment and feeding strategy have on both calves and employees.
Thanks again to True Farms for their openness and willingness to share their story. In this way, others can visit them, tour their facility and get inspired as they consider their own calf-raising alternatives.
Equipment
If you are interested in equipment, here’s what I used: Canon 5D Mark lll camera (with a Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L ll USM zoom lens) mounted on a Glide Gear JB4 Quick Jib (crane). This setup was supported by a Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 055 aluminum tripod fitted with a Manfrotto MVH500AH fluid video head. Editing software: Adobe Premiere Pro
