A FREESTALL PARTITION FOR FORWARD LUNGE

An important decision in freestall design is whether the lunge space provided for the rising cow is forward or to the side. This freestall partition is designed for forward lunge. The partition should be used where two rows of freestalls are facing head-to-head and the forward lunge is intended to be into the stall opposite the cow (as shown). Other applications are where the forward lunge is to be into an alley adjacent to the row of stalls and where the forward lunge is to be through an outside wall (a doghouse and curtain covering the lunge space in winter).

This partition differs from a wide-loop partition (designed for side lunge) in that the distance between the top and bottom rails is less. Side lunge is not necessary and, thus, is discouraged. Moreover, this partition discourages a cow from placing her head through the open loop while lying down, an action that often results in the cow lying diagonally in the freestall. Diagonal lying behavior contributes to dirtier stall beds and cows.
Because each freestall design is a system in itself, installation must conform to recommended dimensions. Also, proper maintenance of the freestall bed is essential.