No matter which bedding you choose, proper management determines how effective the bedding is in increasing cow comfort and reducing mastitis outbreaks. You can use organic and inorganic bedding materials successfully when managed properly. In particular, free-stall bedding choices can have a dramatic impact on the waste treatment lagoon. Two classifications commonly used in categorizing bedding materials are organic and inorganic. Each type of bedding has advantages and disadvantages.
Organic bedding can provide a suitable substrate for the growth and reproduction of microorganisms.
Sawdust and wood shavings are the most common organic bedding materials used by Mississippi dairy producers. These materials work well with liquid-manure handling systems because the microbial activity of the lagoon eventually breaks down the bedding. Sand is an inorganic bedding material comprised principally of silicon with little or no carbon. Unfortunately, these types of bedding can cause problems in the waste-treatment system. The waste-management system used in your dairy should influence bedding choices.