At Roden Echo Valley, a dairy farm near West Bend, Wisconsin, innovative experiments are underway to harness the power of LED lighting in improving milk production and reducing bacterial contamination.
Bob and Rick Roden, in collaboration with Dave Klumb from White Leaf Technologies Group, have been conducting tests using red and blue LED lights, each with its unique purpose.
The Rodens have focused on red LED lighting to enhance blood flow in cows, which is believed to increase milk production. The specific wavelength and duration of exposure are crucial in penetrating the cow hides and stimulating cellular activity. Inspired by the potential benefits of red-light therapy in humans, the experiments have shown promising results, with cows exposed to the lighting producing an average of 3 more pounds of milk per day.
In another aspect of their research, the Rodens and Klumb are exploring the antibacterial effects of blue LED lighting in cow-bedding areas. Although some studies have suggested that blue lighting may decrease milk production and induce stress in dairy cattle, it has also demonstrated potential in killing foodborne pathogens and reducing somatic-cell counts.
The ongoing experiments align with research conducted by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, which found that LED fixtures emitting red, blue, or white light had similar effects on milk yield and cow activity. However, further investigations are needed to determine the long-term impacts of LED lighting on production, activity, and sleep patterns in dairy cows.
As the Rodens and Klumb continue to delve into the advantages and disadvantages of red and blue LED lighting, they plan to engage with other dairy farmers in the West Bend area to share their findings and encourage further exploration of this innovative technology.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-JoeGough
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle