Computer simulation was utilized to assess the performance of different\u00a0ventilation system configurations needed for a sow gestation barn newly converted \u00a0to group housing. Various configurations of the ventilation\u00a0system involving varying capacities and locations of exhaust fans as well as\u00a0size, design and location of air inlets, were examined based on indoor air\u00a0quality (i.e., air temperature, humidity, and air speed at the animal level) and\u00a0ventilation effectiveness (i.e., air distribution and airflow pattern, inlet air\u00a0velocity, and room static pressure). Based on the computer simulation results, horizontal flow ventilation system with air inlets on one side and exhaust\u00a0fans on the opposite side showed the best simulated performance among\u00a0all ventilation design configurations tested. The horizontal flow ventilation\u00a0configuration was then selected for further evaluation in an actual group\u00a0sow housing facility, where energy use, temperature and air quality, and sow\u00a0welfare and performance were assessed.<\/p>\n