Simple planning and training steps to ensure smooth rotary milking startup
Installing a rotary milking parlor is a major step for any dairy farm. A successful startup depends on good planning, proper training, and clear expectations for both workers and cows.
“A rotary startup impacts everything: cow flow, employee confidence, even the pace you’ll be able to achieve months down the road,” said Andy Lenkaitis, senior manager of herd management with GEA. “A strong start begins well before the first cow steps on the platform.”
The first step is early planning and strong communication. Farmers must coordinate with builders, equipment suppliers, and herd managers to ensure the system meets future needs. Planning ahead helps avoid costly changes later. Farm expansion, weather conditions, and labor availability should also be considered when setting timelines.
Next, preparing people and cows is essential. Workers should be trained in new routines, safety practices, and cow handling methods before the first milking begins. Rotary systems require smooth cow movement and proper timing.
During the testing phase, equipment performance and software systems should be checked carefully. Introducing cows slowly and calmly helps reduce stress and improves adaptation.
Setting realistic expectations during the first week is also important. Farmers should begin with fewer cows and gradually increase the load. Younger cows often adjust faster, making them a good starting group. It is normal for efficiency to be lower in the beginning, but cows usually learn the routine within a few days. Avoid adding too much automation at the start, as this can confuse cows and workers.
Finally, measuring performance helps improve results. Farmers should track milking time, rotation speed, and cow flow. Monitoring these indicators allows small adjustments that can improve efficiency over time.
“With the disruption from COVID-19, tariffs and uncertainty overseas, we were relieved to find out a lot of GEA’s parlor manufacturing was going to be done in Wisconsin. Of the things that kept me up at night, I was able to mark that one off my list,” said Jan Henderson, general manager at Alliance Dairies.
With proper preparation and steady management, a rotary parlor can deliver strong performance, better cow comfort, and improved farm productivity.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde