Future-proofing in action: Jersey Girl Farm is using smart tech and good design to farm better.
Jersey Girl farm near Winton transforms winter dairy operations with NumatAGRI's covered feed pad, flood wash system, and Siesta rubber mats. Jason and Leanne Erb share their story on this 900-cow Jersey herd in Southland's tough climate of heavy rain, cold winds, and mud challenges.
They ditched the old composting barn that soaked bedding and spiked maintenance costs. Now, cows stay dry and comfortable on durable, non-slip mats made from recycled tyres that last over 15 years.
Full case study https://numatagri.co.nz/wintering-fee...
The flood wash flushes each 26m-wide barn with 60,000 litres of water in under five minutes, up to three times daily, for spotless surfaces without manual scraping.
Watch as Jason explains the labour win: staff save five hours daily, over 1,800 hours yearly, freeing them for key tasks. Leanne highlights happier cows with better hoof health, slashing vet bills and boosting milk solids. Effluent captures in a 160,000-litre sump, separates solids via weeping wall, and reuses water to cut nitrogen leaching and pond demands.
Key perks include zero woodchip costs at $35 to $50 per cubic metre, lower tractor fuel, and fast ROI in three to five years on the $1.5 million investment. Jason notes, "The cows are dry all winter. It's really nice. You can go in there, walk around them. They're as happy as Larry." Leanne adds, "The animal health has been quite big as well. The cows are a lot happier in the barns."
This setup protects pastures, ensures compliance, and drives productivity. Farmers, see if it fits your farm.
Key Features of the Setup:
Flood Wash System
Two 30,000L tanks release a wave of water through risers spaced every 300mm, cleaning each 26m-wide barn in under 3 minutes.
→ Used 3 times a day, saving ~5 hours of labour daily
1.7% Slope
Built-in slope allows efficient flushing with 60,000L of greenwash water per barn.
Effluent Management
Effluent is captured and stored in a 160,000L sump, then pumped back for reuse — reducing waste and water use.
Siesta Rubber Mats
Provide continuous comfort for wintering cows. The mats held firm even during heavy scraping and bailage feeding.
Results & ROI:
Saves 5 hours/day in labour
Reduces tractor running time and mulch costs
Streamlined feeding: all cows can be fed in the barn
Increased cow comfort = happier animals, better outcomes
It was a big project, but one that’s paid off in efficiency, comfort, and long-term return.
Location: Jersey Girls Farm, near Winton, New Zealand
System installed by Numat Agri Construction
0800 686 119
[email protected]
https://numatagri.co.nz/construction/
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