William Bickert, PhD
Professor Emeritus
120A Farrall Hall
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1323
bickert@msu.edu
Principal Accomplishments:
Extension and research in livestock facilities (1974-present); developed and introduced concepts and designs related to transition housing for dairy calves, full wall ventilation for barns, improved free stalls, equipment for separating sand from sand-laden manure, systems for managing manure and other innovations in facilities. Leader of a research project on automated milking systems (1967-1974); developments included an automatic milking machine detacher and other parlor mechanization, extensive computer simulation of parlor operation, time and motion studies in milking parlor installations and new milking center designs. Teaching and research in electrical systems, instrumentation, controls and processing (1961-1974). Current Research
Current Responsibilities
Overall focus is on developing designs for dairy facilities that enhance dairy farm profitability. Attributes related to animal comfort and to using facilities to implement up-to-date management recommendations are stressed. Housing systems for all ages and categories of animals, ventilation systems, milking centers, manure management systems, feeding systems, and animal sorting and handling facilities are included. Manure management receives special emphasis as an integral aspect of the farm production system and an issue external to the farm. Combination appointment in research and extension in livestock facilities and environment. Director of Manure and Nutrient Management Programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
