Holding Pen Size

[Cattledog]

Ok, I know we have some people here that flat understand the facility necessary for an easy run operation.  I am in the process of redoing my facilities and my question is how big of a holding pen do I need for 15 cows?  I am going to have a holding pen and then a drum that runs the cattle down an alleyway and into a chute.  One other question.  I am also getting ready to install a washrack in my barn and am wondering the size of concrete pad that I may need?  I will have a drain and then some metal posts to keep the cattle from swaying.  How far back should I put the posts?

I know I just asked alot of questions but I just want to do this right the first time! 

 

[GoWyo]

A holding pen about the size of a team roping arena is just right.  It can hold a few corrientes too.

 

[randiliana]

For 15 head you do not need a a very big pen, but, do you plan to increase your herd size at some point, or just maintain the same amount?

A 30 x 40 foot pen would be more than sufficient for 15 head. Or main holding pen is 60 x 70 feet and we have managed over 100 head in it. It is pretty full when more than 100 head are in, but for quiet cows, it works.

 

[Cattledog]

For 15 head you do not need a a very big pen, but, do you plan to increase your herd size at some point, or just maintain the same amount?

A 30 x 40 foot pen would be more than sufficient for 15 head. Or main holding pen is 60 x 70 feet and we have managed over 100 head in it. It is pretty full when more than 100 head are in, but for quiet cows, it works.

I plan on keeping it around 15 cows.  With a full time job that is about all I have time to mess with.