Recently, an increasing number of farmers are planning to build compost barns for their dairy herds. The current findings come primarily from America (especially Minnesota). Practical experience in Austria is mainly based on the work of the Upper Austrian Chamber of Agriculture.

A compost barn is a two-area pen with a paved feeding passage. The lying area is bedded with sawdust or fine wood chips. On average, the bedding material is turned twice daily with a cultivator, and the resulting manure and urine are incorporated so that this mixture can decompose odorlessly with the help of aerobic microorganisms. Currently, only a few compost barns are in operation in Austria. However, experience has already been gained from these farms regarding bedding material, bedding frequency, turning the lying area, manure removal, and management. Further crucial questions are the availability and price of the bedding material.

The following sub-goals are to be achieved in close professional coordination with ART Tänikon:

• Presentation of suitable stable floor plans
• Recommendations regarding space requirements per animal
• Information on tried and tested bedding materials and the required amount of bedding
• Surveys on animal behavior
• Examination of animal health aspects
• Management recommendations for the operation of compost barns

The present project aims to identify any advantages and disadvantages of this novel husbandry system and to provide recommendations for Austrian animal owners.