melkstal

Melkstal is a Dutch term for the milking stall or milking parlor on a dairy farm. It refers to the facility or area where cows are brought for milking and can describe a single stall or the entire milking section. Designs vary by region and farm size, but all melkstallen aim to enable efficient, hygienic milk collection with minimal stress to cows and labor input.

Common configurations include herringbone, parallel, and rotary layouts. In each, cows enter a lane, stand at stalls, and are attached to milking units connected to a vacuum system and milk line. A pulsator governs liner movement, while wash, manure handling, and drainage systems maintain cleanliness. The exact arrangement determines throughput and cow comfort.

Historically, milking on farms evolved from hand milking to mechanized systems in the 20th century, with the melkstal forming a central component of modern dairy operations. In recent decades, automated and robotic milking systems have become increasingly common, enabling data collection on milk yield and cow health and reducing labor requirements.

In Dutch-speaking regions, melkstal is a standard term for milking facilities; globally, terms such as milking parlor or parlor are more common. Effective design considerations include space for movement, non-slip flooring, adequate lighting, cleanable surfaces, and proper drainage for manure and wash water.