2010-02-01

Efficiency and Environment…Like Brother and Sister

So often, increased efficiency and gains to the environment go hand-in-hand. At the Bishop family farm in Round Hill, NS, they’ve installed a geo-thermal heating system that pumps ground-generated heat to the surface where it gently warms their new milking station. In addition to heating the milking station the Bishops see other applications for this heat, like making hot wash water for the milking parlor, quick-cooling raw milk in the chiller and eventually heating their home, and nursery. This heated environment produces a more natural feeling for the cows, and happier cows are more productive cows. Therefore, the geo-thermal heat not only reduces the Bishops’ energy costs, but helps to increase production. They admit, it was a pricey investment…but they’ve already cut electrical costs by one-third.

The Bishops acknowledge saving money feels good, but they add what feels even better is knowing they’ve made a long term contribution for their kids and their future. Their new geo-thermal system has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by the same amount as planting five acres of trees…The Bishops say it’s the easiest planting they’ve ever done.