Beef Cattle Feed Bunk Design: Height, Width, and Material

By Dr. Zubair Khalid, DVM, MS, PhD · 2026-08-14

Key Takeaways

• Optimal bunk height is critical for efficient feed intake and animal comfort, ranging from 18-24 inches for mature cows and 14-18 inches for calves/stockers, measured to the top of the bunk to align with the animal's shoulder point.
• Bunk width (12-18 inches) and depth (10-14 inches) are designed to balance feed accessibility with waste reduction, with a 2-4 inch feed saver lip further minimizing feed tossing.
• Adequate bunk space per animal is essential for uniform intake; 18-24 inches per head for continuous access and 24-30 inches for limit feeding prevents crowding and competition.
• Poured or precast concrete are the preferred materials for feed bunks due to their longevity (20-30 years), ease of cleaning, and resistance to damage, significantly reducing long-term costs compared to steel or wood.
• Proper site preparation, including a well-drained bunk apron (8-12 feet wide) and alley behind the bunk, is crucial to prevent mud accumulation, which exacerbates feed waste and contributes to foot health issues.

Feed bunks are the single most used piece of equipment on most cattle operations. They determine how much feed is wasted, how easily cattle can access their ration, and how much time you spend cleaning and repairing equipment. This guide covers the full range of beef cattle feed bunk design decisions, including height, width, material selection, and construction methods. It is written for beef producers planning a new feedlot, expanding an existing operation, or replacing worn-out bunks. The information applies to cow-calf operations using bunks for supplemental feeding, stocker operations, and finishing feedlots.

At a Glance

Why Feed Bunk Design Matters

Feed bunks are not just containers for feed. They are the interface between your feeding system and your animals. A properly designed bunk saves feed, reduces labor, and keeps cattle healthier. A poorly designed bunk costs money every single day through wasted feed, increased cleaning time, and higher injury risk.

Feed Waste and Economics

Feed represents 60 to 70 percent of the total cost of raising beef cattle. Even a small reduction in feed waste translates directly to improved profit. Research from multiple university extension programs shows that feed waste at the bunk can range from 2 to 15 percent depending on bunk design, management, and feed type. On a 1,000-head feedlot with a daily feed bill of $1,200, a 5 percent waste reduction saves $60 per day, or nearly $22,000 per year.

The biggest sources of feed waste at the bunk include:

• Cattle pushing feed out of the bunk onto the ground
• Feed becoming contaminated with manure and mud
• Feed spoiling in the bunk due to poor drainage
• Feed being trampled underfoot when bunks are too high or too low

Animal Health and Performance

Bunk design directly affects how uniformly cattle consume feed. Cattle that cannot comfortably reach the bunk will eat less, eat more slowly, or be pushed away by more aggressive penmates. This leads to inconsistent intake, which can cause digestive upsets when cattle finally do eat.

Bunks that are too high cause neck strain and make it difficult for cattle to clean up the bottom of the bunk. Bunks that are too low allow cattle to stand with their front feet in the bunk, contaminating feed with dirt and manure. Both situations reduce feed intake and can contribute to health problems.

Labor and Longevity

A well-designed concrete bunk lasts 20 to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Wood bunks require regular replacement of boards and can harbor bacteria in cracks. Steel bunks can rust and may need periodic replacement of panels.

The time you spend cleaning and repairing bunks is also a cost. Smooth concrete surfaces clean quickly with a skid steer or tractor-mounted scraper. Rough, cracked, or poorly designed bunks require hand cleaning and more frequent repair.

Understanding Cattle Size and Reaching Behavior

Before you can choose bunk dimensions, you need to understand how cattle use a feed bunk. Cattle do not reach straight forward into a bunk. They extend their head and neck downward at an angle. The natural feeding position involves the nose dropping below the level of the shoulders, with the head angled down and slightly forward.

Mature Cow Dimensions

A mature beef cow typically stands 54 to 60 inches tall at the shoulder. The distance from the point of the shoulder to the muzzle is approximately 18 to 22 inches. When a cow lowers her head to eat from a bunk at ground level, she can easily reach feed that is 6 to 10 inches below the level of her hooves.

The key measurement for bunk design is the distance from the ground to the point of the shoulder. This determines the natural height of the animal's neck and head when feeding.

Calf and Stocker Dimensions

Calves and stocker cattle are shorter and have shorter necks than mature cows. A 500-pound calf stands about 42 to 46 inches at the shoulder. The distance from shoulder to muzzle is approximately 14 to 16 inches.

When designing bunks for mixed groups, you must accommodate the smallest animals in the pen. If the bunk is too high for calves, they will struggle to reach feed and may be pushed out by larger penmates.

Feeding Posture and Bunk Height

The ideal bunk height allows cattle to stand with their front feet on the ground and their head in a natural downward position to reach the feed. The top of the bunk should be at or slightly below the point of the animal's shoulder.

For mature cows, this means a bunk top height of 18 to 24 inches. The lower end of this range works well for smaller-framed cows and for bunks that are used by both cows and calves. The higher end works for large-framed cows and for operations where only mature animals feed.

For calves and stockers, the bunk top should be 14 to 18 inches. Many operations use adjustable bunks or build separate pens for different age groups to avoid the compromise.

Bunk Height: Getting It Right

Bunk height is measured from the ground to the top of the bunk wall on the animal side. This is the dimension that determines how easily cattle can reach the feed.

Consequences of Bunks Too High

When bunks are too high, cattle must stretch their necks upward to reach feed. This causes several problems:

• Neck and shoulder fatigue reduces time spent eating
• Cattle cannot see the bottom of the bunk, so they leave feed behind
• Smaller or younger animals in the pen cannot reach the bunk at all
• Aggressive animals can push subordinates away from the bunk more easily
• Feed accumulates in the bottom and spoils

Cattle that cannot comfortably reach feed may also develop what is called "bunk shy" behavior. They learn to avoid the bunk because eating is uncomfortable, which leads to inconsistent intake and poor performance.

Consequences of Bunks Too Low

Bunks set too low cause a different set of problems:

• Cattle may step into the bunk with their front feet
• Feed becomes contaminated with dirt and manure
• The bunk fills with mud and debris during wet weather
• Cattle can more easily push feed out of the bunk
• The natural head position is compromised, causing neck strain over time

Cattle standing in bunks also damage the bunk surface and increase the risk of foot injuries.

Measuring Bunk Height

To determine the correct bunk height for your cattle, follow this simple method:

1. Select 5 to 10 animals that represent the average size in your pen
2. Measure the height from the ground to the point of the shoulder
3. Calculate the average shoulder height
4. Set the bunk top at 85 to 95 percent of that average

For example, if your average cow measures 56 inches at the shoulder, set the bunk top at 48 to 53 inches from the ground. Wait, this does not match the recommended range. The confusion comes from measuring to the top of the shoulder rather than the point where the neck meets the chest.

The correct reference point is the point of the shoulder, which is the bony prominence at the front of the shoulder joint. This is typically 8 to 10 inches lower than the top of the shoulder at the withers. For a cow standing 56 inches at the withers, the point of the shoulder is approximately 46 to 48 inches from the ground.

Using the correct reference point, the bunk top should be 18 to 24 inches for mature cows. This places the bunk top well below the point of the shoulder, allowing the cow to lower her head into a natural feeding position.

Bunk Width and Depth

Bunk width and depth work together to determine how much feed the bunk holds and how easily cattle can access it.

Bunk Width

Bunk width is the distance across the top opening from the back wall to the front lip. Most beef cattle bunks have a top opening of 12 to 18 inches.

A width of 12 to 14 inches works well for calves and smaller cattle. It limits the amount of feed that can be pushed out and makes it easier for smaller animals to reach the bottom.

A width of 16 to 18 inches is appropriate for mature cows and finishing cattle. The wider opening allows larger animals to extend their heads fully into the bunk and reach all the feed.

The relationship between bunk width and animal size is important. If the opening is too narrow, cattle cannot get their heads far enough into the bunk to reach the back wall. They will leave feed in the back and push feed out the front. If the opening is too wide, cattle can toss feed out more easily and the bunk holds more feed than needed.

Bunk Depth

Bunk depth is measured from the top of the bunk wall down to the floor of the bunk. Most beef cattle bunks have a depth of 10 to 14 inches.

Shallow bunks of 8 to 10 inches work well for operations that feed multiple times per day. They hold less feed, which means feed is fresher and waste is lower. The shallow depth also makes it easier for cattle to clean up all the feed.

Deeper bunks of 12 to 14 inches are useful for operations that feed once per day or that use self-feeders. The extra capacity reduces the number of times you need to fill the bunk, but it also means feed sits in the bunk longer.

A common design uses a sloped floor that is deeper at the back and shallower at the front. This slope helps feed move toward the front where cattle can reach it and makes cleaning easier. The slope also allows water to drain out of the bunk.

The Feed Saver Lip

Many concrete bunks include a feed saver lip on the front edge. This is a small vertical extension, usually 2 to 4 inches high, that runs along the top of the front wall.

The feed saver lip serves two purposes. It reduces the amount of feed that cattle can push over the front edge, and it gives cattle a clear visual boundary for the edge of the bunk. Cattle learn to keep their heads inside the lip, which reduces feed tossing.

The lip should not be too high. A lip higher than 4 inches can interfere with the animal's ability to reach feed near the front of the bunk. It can also create a hard edge that injures the animal's jaw or neck.

Bunk Space per Animal

The amount of bunk space you provide per animal is a critical design decision. Too little space causes competition and uneven intake. Too much space wastes money on unnecessary bunk length.

Continuous Access

For operations that keep feed in front of cattle at all times, provide 18 to 24 inches of bunk space per mature cow or finishing animal. Calves and stockers need 12 to 18 inches.

With continuous access, cattle can eat whenever they choose. This is the most natural feeding pattern and generally produces the most uniform intake. The downside is that feed is always exposed to weather and spoilage.

Limit Feeding

For operations that feed once or twice daily and expect cattle to clean up all feed between meals, provide 24 to 30 inches of bunk space per animal. The extra space allows all animals to eat at the same time without excessive competition.

Limit feeding requires more bunk space because all cattle typically come to the bunk at the same time when fresh feed is delivered. If bunk space is too tight, aggressive animals eat first and get more feed. Subordinate animals may not get enough.

Continuous vs. Limit Feeding Space

The chart below summarizes the recommended bunk space for different feeding strategies:

Factors That Increase Bunk Space Needs

Several factors can increase the amount of bunk space you need:

• Hot weather reduces the time cattle spend at the bunk, so they need more space when they do come to eat
• Muddy conditions make cattle reluctant to stand at the bunk for long periods
• Newly arrived cattle that are not accustomed to the feeding system need extra space while they learn
• Aggressive or highly dominant animals will claim more space and force subordinates to wait

When in doubt, provide more bunk space rather than less. The cost of extra bunk length is small compared to the cost of uneven intake and reduced performance.

Bunk Apron and Surrounding Area

The area immediately in front of the bunk is called the bunk apron. This area receives heavy traffic from cattle standing and eating, and it must be designed to handle that traffic.

Bunk Apron Width

The bunk apron should extend 8 to 12 feet in front of the bunk. This provides enough firm footing for cattle to stand comfortably while eating. A wider apron is better for large groups of cattle and for operations in wet climates.

The apron should be sloped at 1 to 2 percent away from the bunk. This slope allows water to drain away from the feeding area and keeps the apron from becoming muddy.

Bunk Apron Material

Concrete is the standard material for bunk aprons. A 4 to 6 inch thick concrete slab with wire mesh reinforcement provides a durable, easy-to-clean surface. The apron should extend the full length of the bunk.

Some operations use compacted gravel or limestone for bunk aprons. These materials are cheaper than concrete but require more maintenance. They also do not clean as easily and can become muddy in wet conditions.

Alley Behind the Bunk

The alley behind the bunk must be wide enough for your feed delivery equipment. For a pickup-mounted feed wagon or a small tractor, an alley width of 10 to 12 feet is adequate. For a large truck-mounted mixer wagon, plan for 14 to 16 feet.

The alley surface should be firm and well-drained. A concrete or asphalt surface is ideal, but compacted gravel can work if it is well-maintained.

Drainage Around Bunks

Poor drainage is one of the most common problems with feed bunk installations. Water that pools around bunks creates mud, which increases feed waste, increases maintenance, and can contribute to foot problems in cattle.

The bunk pad should be built on a slight crown, with the highest point at the center of the pad and drainage sloping away in both directions. The apron in front of the bunk should slope away from the bunk at 1 to 2 percent. The alley behind the bunk should slope away from the bunk at a similar rate.

Consider installing a drainage tile or culvert to carry water away from the feeding area. This is especially important in areas with heavy rainfall or poorly drained soils.

Feed Bunk Materials

The choice of material for your feed bunks affects cost, longevity, maintenance, and animal safety. Each material has advantages and disadvantages.

Poured Concrete

Poured concrete is the most common material for permanent feed bunks. It is strong, durable, and relatively easy to construct.

Advantages of poured concrete:

• Long lifespan of 20 to 30 years or more
• Smooth surface is easy to clean
• Resists damage from cattle and equipment
• Does not harbor bacteria or parasites
• Can be formed into any shape or size

Disadvantages of poured concrete:

• High initial cost
• Requires skilled labor for proper construction
• Takes time to cure before use
• Can crack if the base is not properly prepared
• Difficult to modify after construction

When pouring concrete bunks, use a mix with a compressive strength of at least 3,500 to 4,000 psi. Add fiber reinforcement or wire mesh to reduce cracking. Use a smooth finish on the interior surfaces to make cleaning easier.

Precast Concrete Bunks

Precast concrete bunks are manufactured off-site and delivered to your farm ready to install. They are available in a range of sizes and configurations.

Advantages of precast bunks:

• Consistent quality from a manufacturing facility
• Faster installation than poured concrete
• Can be moved or rearranged if needed
• Often include features like feed saver lips and sloped floors

Disadvantages of precast bunks:

• Higher cost per foot than poured concrete for large installations
• Requires a crane or heavy equipment for placement
• Joints between sections can collect feed and debris
• Limited customization options

Precast bunks are a good choice for smaller operations or for operations that may need to reconfigure their feeding area in the future.

Steel Bunks

Steel bunks are commonly used in commercial feedlots and for portable feeding systems.

Advantages of steel bunks:

• Lower initial cost than concrete
• Portable and easy to move
• Available in many sizes and configurations
• Can be repaired by welding

Disadvantages of steel bunks:

• Shorter lifespan than concrete, typically 10 to 15 years
• Rust and corrosion are ongoing problems
• Smooth steel surfaces can become slick when wet
• Sharp edges can injure cattle
• More difficult to clean than concrete

If you choose steel bunks, look for units made from heavy-gauge steel with rolled edges. Apply a rust-inhibiting primer and paint to extend the lifespan.

Polyethylene and Composite Bunks

Polyethylene and composite bunks are a newer option that has gained popularity in recent years.

Advantages of polyethylene bunks:

• Lightweight and portable
• Resistant to rust and corrosion
• Smooth surface is easy to clean
• Does not crack or splinter
• Can be moved by hand or with light equipment

Disadvantages of polyethylene bunks:

• Higher cost than steel
• Can be damaged by extreme cold or impact
• May become brittle over time
• Limited size options compared to concrete or steel
• Not suitable for very large operations

Polyethylene bunks work well for small operations, for supplemental feeding of cow-calf herds, and for temporary feeding setups.

Wood Bunks

Wood bunks are the traditional option and are still used on many small farms.

Advantages of wood bunks:

• Low initial cost, especially if you have lumber on hand
• Easy to build with basic tools
• Can be repaired by replacing individual boards
• Readily available materials

Disadvantages of wood bunks:

• Short lifespan of 5 to 10 years
• Absorbs moisture and harbors bacteria
• Rough surfaces are difficult to clean
• Cattle can chew and damage wood
• Requires regular maintenance and replacement

If you use wood bunks, use pressure-treated lumber or rot-resistant species like oak. Line the interior with smooth material if possible to make cleaning easier.

Material Comparison Summary

Step-by-Step Bunk Construction

Building a concrete feed bunk requires careful planning and proper construction techniques. Follow these steps for a successful installation.

Step 1: Site Selection and Preparation

Choose a location that is well-drained and accessible to your feed delivery equipment. The site should be close to your feed storage area to minimize hauling time.

Clear the area of vegetation and topsoil. The base should be compacted fill or undisturbed soil that is level and stable. Remove any soft spots or organic material that could settle under the weight of the concrete.

Install drainage before pouring concrete. This may include a gravel base, drainage tile, or a culvert to carry water away from the site.

Step 2: Layout and Forms

Mark the location of the bunk and the bunk apron. Use stakes and string to establish the outline.

Build forms for the bunk using 2x6 or 2x8 lumber. The forms must be straight and level. Use stakes driven into the ground to hold the forms in place.

The interior of the forms should be coated with a release agent or form oil to prevent the concrete from sticking.

Step 3: Reinforcement

Place steel reinforcement in the forms before pouring concrete. Use 3/8 inch rebar on 12 inch centers for the bunk walls and floor. Wire the rebar together at intersections.

For the bunk apron, use wire mesh or rebar on 18 inch centers. The reinforcement should be supported on chairs or blocks so it sits in the middle of the concrete slab.

Step 4: Pouring Concrete

Order concrete with a compressive strength of at least 3,500 psi. Add fiber reinforcement to reduce cracking.

Pour the concrete into the forms and use a vibrator to remove air pockets. Screed the surface level using a straight board pulled across the top of the forms.

Finish the concrete with a float to create a smooth surface. For the interior of the bunk, use a steel trowel for a very smooth finish that will be easy to clean.

Step 5: Forming the Bunk Shape

The bunk shape is created by the forms. The back wall of the bunk is typically 10 to 14 inches high. The front wall is 4 to 6 inches high, with the feed saver lip adding another 2 to 4 inches.

The floor of the bunk slopes from the back wall down to the front. This slope helps feed move toward the front and makes cleaning easier.

The front wall should be sloped slightly inward to help keep feed in the bunk. A slope of 10 to 15 degrees from vertical is typical.

Step 6: Curing

Concrete must be kept moist for at least 7 days to cure properly. Cover the concrete with plastic sheeting or wet burlap to prevent moisture loss.

Do not allow cattle or equipment on the new concrete until the concrete has cured for at least 7 days. Full strength is not reached for 28 days.

Step 7: Backfill and Finishing

After the concrete has cured, backfill around the outside of the bunk with compacted soil or gravel. The backfill should be sloped away from the bunk to promote drainage.

Install any gates, posts, or other infrastructure needed to control cattle access to the bunk.

Common Bunk Design Mistakes

Several mistakes appear repeatedly in feed bunk installations. Avoiding these problems will save you time and money.

Mistake 1: Building Bunks Too High

The most common bunk design error is building the bunk too high. Many producers build bunks at waist height for convenience when cleaning or inspecting. This is much too high for cattle.

A bunk top at 36 to 40 inches may be convenient for you, but it forces cattle to stretch their necks upward to reach feed. This reduces intake and can cause long-term neck problems.

Mistake 2: Insufficient Bunk Space

Underestimating the amount of bunk space needed is another common error. Producers often calculate bunk space based on the number of animals they expect to feed at one time, then add a small margin.

The result is that subordinate animals do not get enough feed, and intake becomes uneven. This can lead to digestive upsets and reduced performance.

Mistake 3: Poor Drainage

Bunks built in low areas or without proper drainage become mud holes during wet weather. The mud around the bunk increases feed waste, creates a slip hazard for cattle, and contributes to foot rot and other health problems.

Mistake 4: Ignoring the Bunk Apron

Some producers build a good bunk but skimp on the apron. A narrow or unpaved apron becomes muddy and uneven, which discourages cattle from standing at the bunk to eat.

Mistake 5: Using the Wrong Material for the Situation

Choosing a material based only on initial cost often leads to higher long-term costs. A cheap wood bunk that needs replacement every 5 years costs more than a concrete bunk that lasts 30 years.

Mistake 6: Building Bunks That Are Difficult to Clean

Bunks with rough surfaces, sharp corners, or narrow openings are difficult to clean. Feed accumulates in the corners and spoils, attracting flies and potentially causing health problems.

Mistake 7: Not Planning for Future Expansion

Many producers build bunks that exactly match their current herd size, leaving no room for growth. Expanding the feeding system later is costly and disruptive. Build for the herd size you expect in 5 to 10 years, not just today.

Decision Thresholds for Bunk Replacement

Knowing when to replace or repair a feed bunk is important. Operating with badly worn bunks costs money through increased feed waste and increased labor.

Signs That Bunks Need Replacement

• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch that allow feed to accumulate
• Spalled or chipped concrete that is difficult to clean
• Rusted-through steel panels that have sharp edges
• Wood boards that are rotting or broken
• Bunks that have settled and are no longer level
• Feed saver lips that are broken or missing

Repair vs. Replacement

Minor damage can often be repaired. Small cracks in concrete can be filled with a concrete patch compound. Rusted steel can be patched by welding. Individual wood boards can be replaced.

Major damage usually requires replacement. If the bunk structure is compromised, repair is not cost-effective. A bunk that has settled and is no longer at the correct height should be replaced rather than patched.

Cost of Delayed Replacement

The cost of operating with damaged bunks is real. A bunk that allows 5 percent more feed waste than a new bunk costs $60 per day on a $1,200 daily feed bill. Over a 200-day feeding period, that is $12,000 in wasted feed.

Add the extra labor required to clean damaged bunks and the potential health costs from cattle eating contaminated feed, and the case for timely replacement is clear.

Monitoring and Recordkeeping

Regular monitoring of your feed bunks and feeding system helps you catch problems early and make improvements over time.

Daily Monitoring

Check bunks daily when you deliver feed. Look for:

• Feed left in the bunk from the previous feeding
• Signs of feed being pushed out of the bunk
• Wet or spoiled feed in the bunk
• Damage to the bunk surface
• Cattle behavior at the bunk, including any animals that are not eating

Weekly Monitoring

Once per week, inspect the bunk more thoroughly:

• Check for cracks, chips, or other damage
• Clean the bunk completely and inspect the surface
• Check the apron for signs of wear or settling
• Verify that drainage is working properly
• Measure feed waste by collecting and weighing feed that has been pushed out

Recordkeeping

Keep records of the following:

• Feed deliveries and amounts
• Bunk space per animal and any changes
• Feed waste estimates
• Bunk repairs and maintenance
• Observations of cattle behavior at the bunk

These records help you identify trends and make informed decisions about bunk management.

Adjusting Bunk Management

Use your monitoring data to adjust your feeding program. If you see consistent feed waste, consider:

• Reducing the amount of feed delivered per feeding
• Increasing feeding frequency
• Adjusting bunk height or adding a feed saver lip
• Providing more bunk space per animal

If you see cattle that are not getting enough feed, consider:

• Increasing bunk space
• Adding feeding space for subordinate animals
• Changing the feeding schedule

When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent

Most feed bunk issues are management problems that you can solve yourself. However, certain situations warrant professional help.

Call Your Veterinarian When

• Multiple cattle show signs of digestive upset, such as bloat or diarrhea
• Cattle are losing weight despite adequate feed delivery
• You see signs of foot rot or lameness that may be related to bunk area conditions
• Cattle are not coming to the bunk to eat, which may indicate a herd health problem
• You suspect that contaminated feed is causing health issues

Call Your Extension Agent When

• You are designing a new feeding facility and want guidance on dimensions and layout
• You are considering a major change to your feeding system
• You want help calculating the economics of bunk replacement
• You need assistance with feed waste measurement or bunk management
• You are planning a new feedlot and need help with environmental regulations

Extension agents have access to university research and can provide objective advice on bunk design and management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct height for a beef cattle feed bunk?

The top of the bunk should be 18 to 24 inches from the ground for mature cows and 14 to 18 inches for calves and stockers. The key is to match the bunk height to the point of the animal's shoulder. The bunk top should be at or slightly below this point so cattle can lower their heads into a natural feeding position.

How much bunk space does each cow need?

Provide 18 to 24 inches of bunk space per mature cow for continuous access feeding. For limit feeding, where cattle are expected to clean up all feed between meals, provide 24 to 30 inches per animal. Calves and stockers need 12 to 18 inches for continuous access and 18 to 24 inches for limit feeding.

Should I use concrete or steel for my feed bunks?

Concrete is the best choice for permanent installations. It lasts 20 to 30 years, is easy to clean, and resists damage from cattle and equipment. Steel bunks are less expensive initially but have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance. Use steel for portable or temporary feeding systems, and use concrete for permanent installations.

How wide should the feed bunk opening be?

The top opening of the bunk should be 12 to 18 inches wide. Calves and smaller cattle do well with a 12 to 14 inch opening. Mature cows and finishing cattle need a 16 to 18 inch opening. The opening must be wide enough for cattle to reach all the feed but narrow enough to limit feed tossing.

What is a feed saver lip and do I need one?

A feed saver lip is a small vertical extension, usually 2 to 4 inches high, on the front edge of the bunk. It reduces feed waste by preventing cattle from pushing feed over the front edge. It also gives cattle a visual boundary for the edge of the bunk. Feed saver lips are inexpensive to add during construction and are worth the small extra cost.

How do I keep mud away from my feed bunks?

Build a concrete bunk apron that extends 8 to 12 feet in front of the bunk. Slope the apron at 1 to 2 percent away from the bunk so water drains away. Install drainage tile or culverts to carry water away from the feeding area. In very wet areas, consider building the bunk on a slight crown so water runs off in both directions.

Can I build feed bunks myself or should I hire a contractor?

You can build simple wood or steel bunks yourself with basic tools. Concrete bunks require more skill and equipment. If you have experience with concrete work, you can pour your own bunks. Otherwise, hire a contractor or use precast concrete bunks that are delivered and installed by the manufacturer.

How long do feed bunks last?

Poured concrete bunks last 20 to 30 years with proper construction and maintenance. Precast concrete bunks have a similar lifespan. Steel bunks typically last 10 to 15 years before rust and wear become significant problems. Wood bunks last only 5 to 10 years and require regular maintenance throughout their lifespan.

Related Farming Guides

Additional farming guides related to beef cattle feeding and facility management will appear here. These guides cover topics including feedlot design, cattle nutrition, watering systems, and herd health management.

Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

• Cattle Head Gate Selection and Adjustment
• Beef Cattle Handling Facility Flow
• Beef Cattle Maternity Pen Design: Comfort and Monitoring

References

• Beef Cattle Research Council: https://www.beefresearch.ca/
• USDA APHIS Cattle Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cattle
• WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code: https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/standards/codes-and-manuals/terrestrial-code-online-access/
• FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/
• WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.