Most commercial breeding operations will soon begin placing  their barren and maiden mares under an artificial lighting program. With most breeding farms starting to open on February 15th, it will take at least 60 days  for artificial lights to have any effect on the alteration of the estrus cycle.  Here is a checklist of items to be followed for enhancing your artificial  lighting program.

1. Make sure the holding facility is safe. Regardless if it is a stall environment or catch paddock.

2. Test all fixtures for operation and safety.

3. Test the timer device for accuracy! This is very crucial to the successful outcome of your lighting program.

4. Make sure the light intensity is adequate to have a positive response.  This means - no shadows.

A. Lights should be rated at 30 candlepower at eye level.

B. Anywhere in the holding facility you should be able to turn your back to  the light source, crouch down and read newsprint without  difficulty.

Following these guidelines will only enhance the outcome of your breeding program.