Feedlot Equipment Storage and Maintenance Facilities

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

Key Takeaways

Extended Equipment Lifespan: Properly designed and maintained storage facilities can extend feedlot machinery life by 20-40%, primarily by mitigating degradation from sun exposure (UV damage to rubber/plastics), moisture (rust/corrosion on metal), and temperature fluctuations (seal/lubricant failure).
Optimized Workshop Design: Separating maintenance areas from storage reduces fire risk and improves workflow; essential workshop components include a washdown area with proper drainage to a waste handling system, a service pit or lift for safe access, compressed air (minimum 10-15 cfm at 90 psi), and robust, organized tool/parts storage.
Strategic Space Planning: Calculate storage needs by measuring actual equipment dimensions (including protrusions) and adding 3-4 feet of clearance on sides and 5-6 feet front/rear; plan for at least 25% more space than current needs to accommodate future equipment acquisition and maneuvering.
Material and Structural Considerations: Concrete floors in both storage and workshop areas reduce dust, improve safety, and facilitate cleaning; pole barns are economical, while steel-framed buildings offer greater strength and wider clear spans; proper site preparation with elevated, well-drained pads and adequate ventilation (ridge and soffit vents) are critical for preventing condensation and corrosion.
Proactive Maintenance and Recordkeeping: Implement a structured maintenance schedule (daily checks, periodic servicing based on hours/time, seasonal preparation) and meticulously track all repair costs, parts used, and downtime; this data is crucial for identifying recurring issues and making informed equipment repair-versus-replacement decisions, with a general threshold for replacement being repair costs exceeding 50% of the equipment's current value.

Planning the right storage and maintenance facilities for your feedlot equipment is one of the most important decisions you can make for the long term health of your operation. This article covers everything you need to know about designing, building, and managing feedlot equipment storage and maintenance facilities, including workshop design, layout considerations, equipment protection, safety protocols, and recordkeeping systems. It is written for feedlot owners, managers, and operators who are planning new facilities or upgrading existing ones, and for agricultural advisors who help producers make these capital decisions.

At a Glance

A well designed feedlot equipment storage facility protects your machinery investment and extends equipment life by 20 to 40 percent.
The ideal feedlot machinery shed provides dry, covered storage with a compacted or concrete floor, good drainage, and adequate clearance for your largest equipment.
Your feedlot workshop design should separate the maintenance area from the storage area to reduce fire risk and improve workflow.
Plan for at least 25 percent more storage space than you think you need today to accommodate future equipment purchases.
Concrete floors in both storage and workshop areas reduce dust, improve safety, and make cleanup faster.
A proper maintenance facility includes a washdown area, a service pit or lift, compressed air, adequate lighting, and secure tool storage.
Regular maintenance records help you track repair costs, identify recurring problems, and make better replacement decisions.
Call a veterinarian or extension agent when you suspect equipment related health issues such as feed contamination, water system failures, or ventilation problems in enclosed buildings.

Why Feedlot Equipment Storage Matters

Feedlot operations depend on a wide range of equipment: feed mixers, delivery trucks, loaders, manure handling equipment, water systems, and processing facilities. Each piece represents a significant capital investment. The way you store and maintain that equipment directly affects how long it lasts, how reliably it performs, and how much it costs to operate.

Equipment left outdoors in the elements deteriorates faster than stored equipment. Sun exposure degrades rubber hoses, tires, and belts. Rain and snow cause rust and corrosion on metal components. Temperature swings cause seals to fail and lubricants to break down. Dust and dirt work their way into bearings, hydraulic systems, and engines. Over a ten year period, an implement that is stored indoors will typically retain a higher resale value and require fewer repairs than the same implement stored outside.

Beyond protecting the equipment itself, the right storage and maintenance facility improves worker safety and productivity. A well organized workshop with good lighting and proper tools allows maintenance work to be done faster and more safely. A dedicated washdown area keeps mud and manure out of the workshop. Secure storage for tools and parts reduces loss and theft. Good drainage around the facility prevents standing water and mud that create slip hazards and accelerate equipment corrosion.

Planning Your Feedlot Equipment Storage Facility

Assess Your Current and Future Equipment Inventory

Before you design your feedlot machinery shed, take a complete inventory of the equipment you currently own and the equipment you are likely to purchase in the next five to ten years. Walk your operation and list every piece of equipment that needs storage. Include tractors, loaders, feed trucks, mixers, manure spreaders, mowers, rakes, balers, water wagons, and any attachments.

For each piece of equipment, record the following information:

Overall length, width, and height
Weight
Clearance needed for operation and maintenance
Any components that fold, extend, or require additional clearance
Whether the equipment is sensitive to moisture, temperature, or dust
How frequently the equipment is used
Whether the equipment is currently stored indoors or outdoors

This inventory becomes the basis for your space calculations. Do not rely on memory or on the dimensions listed in the operator manual alone. Measure your actual equipment, including mirrors, exhaust stacks, and other protrusions that increase the physical footprint.

Calculate Space Requirements

A common planning mistake is building a feedlot machinery shed that is too small. Equipment sizes change over time. Feed trucks get bigger, mixers become larger, and new attachments add to the fleet. Build for the equipment you expect to own in the future, not just what you have today.

A practical rule of thumb is to plan for at least 25 percent more storage space than your current equipment requires. If your equipment inventory sums to 10,000 square feet of storage footprint, plan for 12,500 square feet. This extra space accommodates new purchases, provides room for maneuvering, and gives you space for temporary storage of parts or supplies.

When calculating the footprint, remember that you need more than just the area of the equipment itself. You need clearance around each piece for access, for opening doors and hoods, and for attaching implements. A good rule is to add three to four feet of clearance on each side of the equipment and five to six feet at the front and rear. This allows a person to walk around the equipment and perform routine checks without squeezing between machines.

Choose the Right Building Type

Several types of buildings work well for feedlot equipment storage. The right choice depends on your climate, budget, and the size of your operation.

Pole barns are the most common and economical option for feedlot machinery sheds. They use treated wood posts set in the ground, with a metal roof and metal siding. Pole barns are relatively inexpensive to build, can be erected quickly, and can be built in almost any size. They work well in most climates and provide good protection from sun, rain, and snow. The main limitation is that the posts are set in the ground, which can be a concern in areas with high water tables or poor drainage.

Steel framed buildings offer more strength and durability than pole barns. They can span wider distances without interior posts, which makes maneuvering large equipment easier. Steel buildings are more expensive than pole barns but require less maintenance over time. They are a good choice for larger feedlots that need wide clear spans and a long service life.

Quonset style buildings are arched metal buildings that are economical and quick to erect. They provide good protection from the elements and can be built in various widths. The curved walls can make it awkward to store tall equipment close to the walls, but they are a solid option for many operations.

Insulated and heated buildings are appropriate for workshops and for storing equipment that is sensitive to temperature extremes. If you plan to do maintenance work in the winter, an insulated workshop with a heating system will keep your crew productive year round. Some electronic components and precision equipment also benefit from temperature controlled storage.

Design the Layout

The layout of your feedlot equipment storage facility affects how efficiently you can move equipment in and out, how safe the building is, and how well it protects your machinery.

Start with the location of the building on your property. Place it on high ground with good drainage. The building should be accessible from your main traffic routes so that equipment can move in and out without crossing busy areas or creating congestion. Consider prevailing winds and place the building so that dust and odors from the feedlot do not blow into the open doors.

Inside the building, separate the storage area from the workshop area. The storage area is for parking equipment that is not in use. The workshop is for maintenance and repair work. Keeping these functions separate reduces the risk of fire, keeps dust and debris away from precision work, and makes both areas more organized.

Design the storage area with drive through access where possible. A drive through layout, with doors at both ends, allows equipment to enter at one end and exit at the other. This eliminates the need to back equipment into tight spaces and reduces the risk of accidents. If drive through access is not possible, design the building with wide doors and adequate turning space inside.

The floor of your feedlot machinery shed should be concrete or compacted gravel. Concrete is the better choice for most operations. It provides a smooth, level surface that is easy to clean, does not hold moisture, and does not create dust. Concrete also supports heavy equipment without rutting or settling. If you use compacted gravel, choose a well graded gravel that packs tightly and does not hold water.

Plan for Clearance

One of the most common problems with feedlot equipment storage buildings is insufficient clearance. Equipment has grown taller and wider over the years, and buildings that were adequate for older equipment may not accommodate newer machines.

When you design your building, check the clearance for your tallest equipment. Include the height of the equipment itself, plus any attachments or loads that increase the height. Add at least two feet of clearance above the tallest equipment to allow for maintenance work, for opening hatches or covers, and for the movement of overhead equipment.

Door height and width are equally important. Measure the actual clearance of your doors, not just the nominal opening size. Account for door tracks, frames, and any obstructions that reduce the usable opening. A door that is nominally 14 feet wide may have only 13 feet 6 inches of usable opening once the frame and track are accounted for.

Designing the Feedlot Workshop

The workshop is the heart of your maintenance facility. A well designed feedlot workshop design allows your crew to perform routine maintenance and repairs efficiently and safely. The size and complexity of the workshop depend on the size of your operation and the amount of maintenance work you do in house.

Determine the Workshop Size

A good workshop for a mid size feedlot should be at least 30 by 40 feet, which provides 1,200 square feet of work space. Larger operations with more equipment and more maintenance work should plan for 2,000 to 3,000 square feet or more.

The workshop needs enough space for the largest piece of equipment you will work on, plus room to move around it with tools and parts. You also need dedicated areas for the workbench, tool storage, parts storage, and a washdown area. Do not try to save money by building a workshop that is too small. A cramped workshop is inefficient and dangerous.

Locate the Washdown Area

A washdown area is essential for removing mud, manure, and debris before maintenance work begins. Working on dirty equipment is unpleasant and dangerous. Dirt and manure hide fasteners, contaminate lubricants, and make it difficult to see leaks and damage.

The washdown area should be located at the entrance to the workshop or in a separate bay adjacent to it. It should have a concrete floor with good drainage, a high pressure washer, and a water supply. The floor should slope toward a drain that is connected to a proper waste handling system. Do not let wash water run into the yard or into surface water. Manure, mud, and chemical residues in wash water can contaminate soil and water sources.

If your feedlot does not have a washdown area, consider building one as part of your workshop project. A simple wash pad with a concrete floor, a drain, and a high pressure washer can be built for a modest cost and will pay for itself in reduced maintenance time and improved equipment reliability.

Include a Service Pit or Lift

Working under equipment is much easier and safer when you have a service pit or a lift. A service pit is a recessed area in the workshop floor that allows a person to stand under the equipment while working. A lift raises the equipment so that a person can work underneath it.

Service pits are the more economical option and are common in farm workshops. A typical service pit is three to four feet wide, six to eight feet deep, and long enough to accommodate your largest equipment. The pit should have steps at one end, lighting inside, and a cover that can be placed over the opening when the pit is not in use.

Lifts are more expensive but provide better access and greater flexibility. A two post or four post lift can raise equipment to a comfortable working height and can be used for a variety of maintenance tasks. If you plan to do significant repair work, a lift is a worthwhile investment.

Provide Compressed Air

Compressed air is used for inflating tires, cleaning parts, operating air tools, and spraying lubricants and cleaners. A properly sized air compressor is essential for an efficient workshop.

Choose an air compressor that provides enough capacity for your tools. A typical farm workshop needs a compressor that delivers at least 10 to 15 cubic feet per minute at 90 pounds per square inch. Larger workshops with multiple workstations may need a bigger compressor or a central air system with distribution lines.

Install air lines around the workshop with quick connect fittings at convenient locations. Put a drain valve at the lowest point of the air system to remove moisture from the tank and lines. Moisture in compressed air damages tools and causes rust in the system.

Plan for Lighting

Good lighting is essential for safe and efficient maintenance work. Poor lighting causes eye strain, increases the risk of accidents, and makes it difficult to see what you are doing.

Use a combination of general lighting and task lighting in the workshop. General lighting should provide even illumination throughout the space. LED high bay fixtures are a good choice for workshops because they provide bright, even light and use less energy than older lighting technologies.

Task lighting should be provided at the workbench, at the service pit or lift, and in any areas where detailed work is performed. Portable work lights are useful for illuminating specific areas of equipment during repairs.

Secure Tool and Parts Storage

Tools and parts are valuable and easily lost or stolen. A secure storage system protects your investment and makes the workshop more organized and efficient.

Install a lockable tool cabinet or tool chest for hand tools. Organize tools by type and size so that they are easy to find and return. A shadow board, which outlines each tool on a board, makes it easy to see when a tool is missing and encourages workers to return tools to their proper place.

Parts storage should be organized by category and labeled clearly. Fasteners, filters, belts, hoses, and other consumables should be stored in bins or on shelves. Keep a small inventory of commonly needed parts on hand so that routine maintenance is not delayed by waiting for parts to arrive.

Building the Feedlot Machinery Shed

Site Preparation

Proper site preparation is critical for a long lasting feedlot machinery shed. The building site should be level, well drained, and free of debris. Remove topsoil and organic material from the building footprint and replace it with compacted fill if necessary.

The building pad should be built up above the surrounding grade to keep water from flowing into the building. A pad that is six to twelve inches above the surrounding grade is usually sufficient. Slope the pad away from the building so that water drains away from the structure.

Install any underground utilities, such as electrical service, water lines, and drainage pipes, before the floor is poured. It is much more expensive to add utilities after the building is complete.

Concrete Floor Construction

A concrete floor is the best choice for both the storage area and the workshop area of your feedlot equipment storage facility. Concrete provides a durable, level surface that is easy to clean and supports heavy equipment without damage.

The concrete floor should be at least four to six inches thick for storage areas and six to eight inches thick for workshop areas where heavy equipment will be serviced. Use reinforced concrete with wire mesh or rebar to prevent cracking. The concrete should be finished with a smooth trowel surface in the workshop and a broom finish in the storage area to provide traction.

Install expansion joints in the concrete to allow for movement as the concrete cures and as temperatures change. Expansion joints should be placed every 10 to 15 feet in both directions. Seal the joints with a flexible sealant to keep out dirt and moisture.

Building Construction

The construction of the feedlot machinery shed should be done by experienced contractors who understand the requirements of agricultural buildings. The building must be properly anchored to resist wind loads, and the framing must be adequate to support the roof and any loads from snow or other sources.

The roof should be made of a durable material that reflects heat and resists corrosion. Galvanized steel is the most common choice for agricultural buildings. It is durable, relatively inexpensive, and available in a variety of colors. A light colored roof reflects heat and keeps the building cooler in the summer.

The siding should match the roof in durability and appearance. Steel siding is the most common choice. It is available in various gauges, with heavier gauge providing greater resistance to damage from impacts and wind.

The doors are one of the most important components of the building. They must be large enough to accommodate your equipment and must operate smoothly and reliably. Sliding doors are the most common choice for feedlot machinery sheds because they are economical and do not require overhead clearance. Overhead doors are also available and provide better weather protection but require more headroom and are more expensive.

Ventilation and Condensation Control

Proper ventilation is important in a feedlot machinery shed to control condensation and reduce humidity. Condensation forms when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces. In an unheated building, condensation can form on the underside of the roof and drip onto equipment, causing rust and corrosion.

Provide ridge vents or other ventilation openings at the top of the building to allow warm, moist air to escape. Soffit vents at the eaves allow fresh air to enter. The combination of ridge and soffit vents creates natural air flow that moves moisture out of the building.

In areas with high humidity, consider adding a vapor barrier under the concrete floor and insulation in the roof. A vapor barrier prevents moisture from the ground from migrating through the concrete and into the building. Roof insulation reduces condensation by keeping the underside of the roof closer to the temperature of the building interior.

Protecting Equipment in Storage

Prepare Equipment for Storage

Equipment that is stored for extended periods needs special preparation to prevent damage. Even with a good feedlot machinery shed, equipment that sits unused for months can develop problems.

Before storing equipment for the season, clean it thoroughly to remove dirt, mud, and manure. Dirt holds moisture against metal surfaces and accelerates corrosion. Manure is corrosive and can damage paint and metal.

Change the oil and filters before storage. Old oil contains acids and contaminants that can damage the engine over time. Fresh oil protects internal components during storage.

Top off all fluid levels, including coolant, hydraulic fluid, and transmission fluid. Check for leaks and repair them before storage. A small leak that is ignored during storage can become a major problem when the equipment is put back into service.

Protect exposed metal surfaces with a light coat of oil or rust inhibitor. This includes hydraulic cylinders, shafts, and other machined surfaces. The oil film prevents moisture from reaching the metal and causing rust.

Remove batteries from equipment that will be stored for more than a month. Store batteries in a cool, dry place and keep them charged. A battery that is left in stored equipment will discharge over time and may be damaged by freezing.

Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and place blocks under the equipment to take the weight off the tires if the equipment will be stored for a long period. This prevents flat spots and extends tire life.

Control Pests

Rodents and birds can cause significant damage to stored equipment. Mice and rats chew on wiring, hoses, and upholstery. Birds nest in equipment and leave droppings that are corrosive and unsanitary.

Keep the feedlot machinery shed clean and free of food sources. Do not store feed, grain, or other attractants in the building. Seal openings where rodents can enter the building. Use traps or bait stations to control rodent populations.

Inspect stored equipment regularly for signs of pest activity. Look for droppings, nesting material, and chewed wires or hoses. Address pest problems promptly before they cause significant damage.

Maintain the Storage Environment

Even in a good feedlot machinery shed, the storage environment needs attention. Check the building regularly for leaks in the roof, damage to the siding, and problems with the doors. Repair any damage promptly to prevent water from entering the building.

Keep the floor clean and free of debris. Sweep or blow out the building regularly to remove dust, dirt, and other material that can hold moisture against equipment.

Monitor the humidity inside the building. In humid climates, you may need to add ventilation or a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels down. High humidity accelerates corrosion and damages electrical components.

Feedlot Equipment Maintenance

Develop a Maintenance Schedule

A regular maintenance schedule is the most important thing you can do to extend the life of your feedlot equipment. Equipment that is maintained according to the manufacturer recommendations will last longer, break down less often, and cost less to operate than equipment that is neglected.

Create a maintenance schedule for each piece of equipment in your fleet. The schedule should include daily checks, periodic maintenance at specified hour intervals, and seasonal maintenance before and after periods of heavy use.

Daily checks are quick inspections that take a few minutes. They include checking fluid levels, looking for leaks, inspecting tires, and checking for loose or damaged components. Daily checks catch small problems before they become big ones.

Periodic maintenance is performed at specified intervals, usually based on engine hours or calendar time. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and inspections of major components. Follow the manufacturer recommendations for the specific maintenance intervals for each piece of equipment.

Seasonal maintenance is performed before and after periods of heavy use. For example, before the busy feeding season, you might service the feed mixer, check the delivery truck, and make sure all equipment is in good working order. After the season, you prepare equipment for storage as described earlier.

Train Your Crew

Your maintenance program is only as good as the people who carry it out. Train your crew on the proper maintenance procedures for each piece of equipment. Make sure they know how to perform daily checks, how to recognize signs of wear and damage, and how to perform basic maintenance tasks.

Keep operator manuals and maintenance guides accessible in the workshop. Encourage your crew to refer to the manuals when they have questions about procedures or specifications.

Consider sending one or two crew members to manufacturer training courses for your major equipment. These courses provide in depth knowledge that can improve your maintenance program and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Track Maintenance and Repairs

A recordkeeping system for maintenance and repairs is essential for managing your equipment fleet. Good records help you track the cost of owning and operating each piece of equipment, identify recurring problems, and make better decisions about when to repair or replace equipment.

For each piece of equipment, keep a log that includes the following information:

Date of each maintenance service
Hours or miles at the time of service
What was done during the service
Parts and fluids used
Cost of parts and labor
Any problems found during the service
Any repairs performed and their cost

This information tells you the true cost of operating each piece of equipment. When a piece of equipment reaches the point where repair costs are consistently high, the records show that it may be time to replace it.

Stock Common Parts

Keeping a small inventory of common parts on hand reduces downtime and keeps your maintenance program running smoothly. The specific parts you stock depend on your equipment, but most feedlot operations should keep the following items on hand:

Engine oil and hydraulic fluid
Oil filters, fuel filters, and air filters
Belts and hoses
Grease and lubricants
Light bulbs and fuses
Tires for common equipment
Fasteners and hardware
Hydraulic fittings and seals

Store parts in a clean, dry area and keep them organized and labeled. Rotate your parts inventory to use older parts first and prevent deterioration.

Common Mistakes in Feedlot Equipment Storage Facility Planning

Building Too Small

The most common mistake in feedlot equipment storage is building too small. Equipment sizes have increased over the years, and many producers find that their new equipment does not fit in their existing buildings. Build for the future, not just for today. Include the 25 percent buffer in your space calculations and do not be tempted to cut corners on size.

Ignoring Door Clearance

A building can be large enough overall but still have doors that are too small for your equipment. Always measure the actual usable door opening, not just the nominal size. Account for door tracks, frames, and other obstructions. If you have any doubt about the door size, go bigger.

Skimping on the Workshop

The workshop is where you maintain your equipment and keep it running. A cramped, poorly equipped workshop reduces productivity and increases the risk of accidents. Invest in a properly sized workshop with good lighting, compressed air, and adequate tool storage.

Poor Drainage

Water is the enemy of equipment and buildings. A building that is placed in a low area or that has poor drainage around it will have water problems. Take the time to properly grade the site and provide drainage away from the building.

Neglecting Ventilation

Condensation in a feedlot machinery shed causes rust and corrosion on equipment. Without proper ventilation, moisture builds up in the building and damages your equipment. Install ridge vents and soffit vents to provide natural air flow and control condensation.

Not Planning for Growth

Your operation will change over time. You will buy new equipment, sell old equipment, and change the way you do things. A feedlot equipment storage facility that is designed for today only will not serve you well in the future. Plan for growth and flexibility in your design.

Decision Thresholds for Equipment Repair or Replacement

One of the most important decisions you will make as a feedlot operator is whether to repair or replace a piece of equipment. The decision is not always straightforward, but some guidelines can help you make a sound choice.

Compare Repair Costs to Replacement Value

A common rule of thumb is that if the cost of a major repair exceeds 50 percent of the value of the equipment, it is time to replace the equipment. For example, if a feed mixer is worth 20,000 dollars and needs a 12,000 dollar repair, replacement is probably the better choice.

However, this rule does not account for the age and condition of the equipment. A relatively new piece of equipment that needs a major repair may be worth repairing, even if the repair cost is high, because the equipment has many years of useful life remaining. An older piece of equipment that has already had several major repairs may not be worth repairing, even if the repair cost is relatively low.

Consider Downtime Costs

When a piece of equipment breaks down, the cost goes beyond the repair bill. You also lose the use of the equipment, which can disrupt your operation and cost money in lost productivity. If a piece of equipment is unreliable and frequently breaks down, the downtime costs may justify replacing it even if the repair costs alone do not.

Estimate the cost of downtime for each piece of equipment. How much does it cost you when the feed mixer is down for a day? When the delivery truck is out of service? If the equipment is critical to your operation and downtime is expensive, you may want to replace it sooner rather than later.

Look at the Trend

A single major repair does not necessarily mean a piece of equipment should be replaced. But a pattern of increasing repair costs is a warning sign. Review your maintenance records to see the trend in repair costs over time. If repair costs are trending upward and the equipment is getting older, replacement may be the better option.

Get Professional Advice

When you are facing a major repair or replacement decision, get professional advice. Your equipment dealer can provide information about the condition of the equipment and the cost and reliability of repairs. An agricultural engineer or equipment specialist can help you evaluate your options and make a sound decision.

Monitoring and Recordkeeping

Keep Equipment Records

Good recordkeeping is essential for managing your feedlot equipment fleet. Your records should include the following information for each piece of equipment:

Purchase date and price
Make, model, and serial number
Warranty information
Maintenance schedule and service records
Repair history and costs
Operating hours and fuel consumption
Resale value estimates

Keep these records in a central location, either in a paper file or in a computer program. Many producers use spreadsheet programs or farm management software to track equipment records.

Track Operating Costs

Knowing the true cost of operating each piece of equipment helps you make better decisions about maintenance, repair, and replacement. Track all costs associated with each piece of equipment, including:

Fuel and lubricants
Maintenance parts and supplies
Repair labor and parts
Insurance and registration
Depreciation

Divide the total annual cost by the hours of use to get the cost per hour of operation. This figure tells you how much it really costs to run each piece of equipment.

Review Records Regularly

Do not just collect records and file them away. Review your equipment records regularly to identify trends and spot problems. Look for equipment with unusually high operating costs, frequent breakdowns, or recurring problems. These are the equipment that may need to be replaced.

Schedule a regular review of your equipment records, such as quarterly or at the end of each season. Use the review to make decisions about maintenance, repair, and replacement.

Use Records for Planning

Your equipment records are also valuable for planning. They help you forecast future maintenance and repair costs, plan for equipment replacement, and budget for capital improvements. Good records make your business more professional and help you make better decisions.

When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent

Most of the time, feedlot equipment storage and maintenance is a straightforward matter of good facility design and regular maintenance. However, there are times when you should seek professional advice.

Equipment Related Health Concerns

If you suspect that equipment problems are affecting the health of your cattle, call a veterinarian. Some examples include:

Feed contamination from a feed mixer that is not properly cleaned or has worn parts that contaminate feed
Water system failures that leave cattle without adequate water
Ventilation problems in enclosed buildings that cause respiratory issues
Manure handling problems that create unsanitary conditions

A veterinarian can help you diagnose health problems and determine whether equipment issues are contributing to the problem. They can also help you develop protocols to prevent equipment related health issues.

Regulatory Compliance

Some equipment and facility issues have regulatory implications. For example, wash water from your equipment washdown area may be subject to environmental regulations. Manure storage and handling equipment must comply with regulations in many areas. Your extension agent can help you understand the regulations that apply to your operation and make sure your facilities are compliant.

Facility Design and Engineering

If you are planning a major facility project, consider consulting with an agricultural engineer or extension agent. These professionals can help you design a feedlot equipment storage facility that meets your needs, complies with regulations, and is cost effective. The cost of professional advice is small compared to the cost of building a facility that does not work well.

New Technology and Best Practices

Agriculture is constantly changing, and new equipment and practices are always being developed. Your extension agent can help you stay current with new technology and best practices for feedlot equipment storage and maintenance. They can also connect you with other producers who have experience with similar facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big should my feedlot equipment storage building be?

The size of your feedlot equipment storage building depends on the amount and size of equipment you own. Start by measuring all of your equipment and calculating the total storage footprint, including clearance space around each piece. Add at least 25 percent to this figure to accommodate future equipment purchases and provide maneuvering room. For a typical mid size feedlot with a few tractors, a feed mixer, and a delivery truck, a building of 60 by 80 feet is often adequate. Larger operations may need 100 by 120 feet or more.

What is the best flooring for a feedlot machinery shed?

Concrete is the best flooring for a feedlot machinery shed. It provides a smooth, level surface that is easy to clean, does not hold moisture, and supports heavy equipment without rutting or settling. Use at least four to six inches of reinforced concrete for storage areas and six to eight inches for workshop areas. If concrete is not in your budget, well compacted gravel is an acceptable alternative, but it requires more maintenance and is harder to keep clean.

Should I heat my feedlot workshop?

Heating your feedlot workshop is a good investment if you do maintenance work during the winter months. A heated workshop keeps your crew productive year round and makes it easier to perform quality work in cold weather. An insulated building with a forced air furnace or radiant heater is the most common approach. The cost of heating is usually offset by the increased productivity and the ability to do maintenance work when equipment is not needed for feeding operations.

How do I control condensation in my feedlot machinery shed?

Condensation is controlled by providing ventilation that allows warm, moist air to escape from the building. Install ridge vents at the peak of the roof and soffit vents at the eaves to create natural air flow. In humid climates, you may need to add mechanical ventilation or a dehumidifier. A vapor barrier under the concrete floor and insulation in the roof also help control condensation by reducing moisture sources and temperature differences.

What maintenance should I perform before storing equipment for the season?

Before storing equipment for an extended period, clean it thoroughly to remove dirt, mud, and manure. Change the oil and filters, top off all fluid levels, and repair any leaks. Protect exposed metal surfaces with a light coat of oil or rust inhibitor. Remove batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure and place blocks under the equipment if it will be stored for a long period.

How often should I service my feedlot equipment?

Follow the manufacturer recommendations for each piece of equipment. Most equipment has a maintenance schedule based on engine hours or calendar time. For example, oil changes are typically recommended every 100 to 250 hours depending on the equipment and the operating conditions. Perform daily checks before each use, including checking fluid levels, looking for leaks, and inspecting tires and major components. Keep a maintenance log for each piece of equipment to track what has been done and when.

What should I include in my feedlot workshop?

A well equipped feedlot workshop should include a washdown area for cleaning equipment before maintenance, a service pit or lift for working under equipment, compressed air for tools and cleaning, good lighting throughout the space, and secure storage for tools and parts. A workbench with a vise is also essential. The specific equipment you need depends on the type of maintenance work you do in house.

How do I know when to replace a piece of equipment?

Compare the cost of major repairs to the value of the equipment. If a repair costs more than 50 percent of the equipment value, replacement is usually the better choice. Also consider the age and condition of the equipment, the trend in repair costs over time, and the cost of downtime when the equipment is out of service. Your equipment records are essential for making this decision. If you are uncertain, consult with your equipment dealer or an agricultural engineer.

Related Farming Guides

This section will be populated with links to related farming guides on feedlot management, equipment selection, and facility planning. Check back for updates or explore the full library of beef cattle farming guides for more information.

Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

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.