Farmers could reduce their feed and energy costs while improving growth rates, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) said, following publication of its updated handbook.

The Controlled Environment for Livestock handbook has been given a facelift to include new and emerging technologies, providing major benefits to farmers and their livestock.

The handbook provides concise, no-nonsense guidance and addresses the fundamental principles involved in controlled environments for pigs, poultry and cattle; including air, temperature and light.

AHDB said optimising the environment in which livestock are housed helps improve the health and welfare of livestock, reduces mortality rates and provides financial savings for farmers.

Nigel Penlington, head of environment and buildings at AHDB, said: “In commercial agriculture, we often just think of pigs and poultry as being associated with controlled environments. However, other animals, including cattle, can also thrive in controlled conditions at some time during their lives.”

Several updates have been made to the handbook over the years, coordinated by Andrew Kneeshaw of the Farm Energy Centre.

Mr Penlington added: “This major update to the handbook will be of great use to farmers and building designers alike, who will be able to refer to it for all aspects of putting together controlled environments for livestock.”

The handbook can be downloaded from the AHDB website, by clicking HERE.