Choosing the Right Cow Bedding for BC Dairy Farms: Comfort, Health, and Productivity

Choosing the Right Cow Bedding for BC Dairy Farms

Comfortable stalls, and clean bedding are some of the most effective ways to support great milk production, strong hock, hoof and udder health. Time spent lying down directly equates to better milk production. For the dairy farmers of British Columbia where humidity, precipitation and environmental factors all play a role; selecting the right bedding system is especially important for each farm. The reality is what works for Peter, might not work for Paul. So, be realistic about your management style and choose wisely.

Why Bedding Matters

Cows who lie down comfortably, ruminate more, produce more milk, and experience fewer injuries. Clean stalls control bacteria and can reduce the risk of mastitis, helping maintain the milk quality standards held by BC’s dairy producers.

Common Bedding Options in BC

1. Sand

Sand remains one of the most popular choices in coastal and interior regions. It offers excellent cow comfort, low bacterial growth, and good traction, and cows love its cooling capability in the hot summer months. However, sand is tough on equipment and requires appropriate manure-handling systems, which do not last as long with sand barns. Sand can also be expensive without a sand lane. Sand in manure equals sand in your pit, on your field and in your equipment (pumps). All these factors have a cost associated with them.  

2. Compost Bedding

Compost bedding works well in BC’s dry interior climate but does require good management practices in places like Vancouver Island and the Fraser Valley where moisture and humidity are a challenge 12 months of the year. Regardless of the region, moisture management is critical to the success of this bedding material. The more moisture you have the bacteria growth you will get. Regular tilling, ample dry carbon, and good ventilation keep the beds aerobic and comfortable. This bedding material greatly reduces bedding costs while improving cow mobility and comfort.

3. Sawdust & Shavings

Local forestry by-products like sawdust and shavings are readily available in many parts of BC. They’re easy to replenish and manage, but moisture control is essential to limit bacterial growth especially during wetter seasons in areas like the Fraser Valley and Coastal regions. Wood based products can be coarse which can lead to hock and knee issues, so the type of wood and your purchasing source are factors to consider. Deep bedded stalls can also present challenges for some manure systems and is something to be mindful of when making a decision like this.

4. Mattresses with Bedding

Rubber mattresses or waterbeds paired with a thin layer of sawdust, shavings, or straw provide a cost-effective compromise. They reduce bedding volume while still offering softness and consistency. The quality and technology of mattresses and waterbeds have improved tremendously over the last 10 years and does not come with the challenges traditionally associated with a mattress.

Key Considerations for BC Operations

• Moisture control: High humidity and heavy rainfall on the coast mean bedding must be replaced or dried more frequently than in interior regions.

• Manure systems: Ensure your bedding choice works with your existing separation, pumping, or composting setup.

• Sustainability: Many BC farms aim to reduce waste and improve nutrient cycling; compost packs and recycled solids may fit these goals.

• Cow comfort metrics: Track lying time, stall cleanliness, and hock condition to evaluate whether bedding meets your herd’s needs.

Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best bedding for your farm depends on many factors, personal management style, local conditions, herd size, facility design, and long-term management goals. What matters most is keeping stalls clean, dry, and inviting because comfortable cows are productive cows. Call your local WCR Sales Rep to find the best fit for your farm.