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This study examined the climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices of dairy farmers in Agula and Maychew, Northern Ethiopia. Data was collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) and questionnaires. The study explored farmers', implementation of three CSA practices – improved fodder, manure management, and replacement of unproductive cows. The determinants of CSA adoption were analyzed using a binary logistics model at significance levels of 1%, 5%, and 10%. Results showed that improved fodder was adopted by 60.1% in Agula and 18.2% in Maychew. The adoption of manure management (p =.229) and replacement of unproductive cows (p =.935) did not vary significantly. The replacement of unproductive cows had the highest adoption rate (45.9%). Improved fodder adoption was significantly higher among male-headed farms (p =.017). Manure management adoption was positively associated with gender (p =.034), number of cows (p =.081), and access to climate information (p =.063). Replacement of unproductive cows was associated with number of cows (p <.001), farm income (p =.049), and access to extension services (p =.006). FGDs revealed that farmers were able to perceive climate change and its effects on their dairy business. This study underscores the need for CSA practices to adapt to climate change impact on animals and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The reproductive and productive performance play significant role in judging the qualitative and quantitative traits in a dairy animal and has direct effect on the milk production and profitability in any dairy enterprise. Methods: The present study was conducted in Jharkhand State, wherein 180 members of Jharkhand State Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation and 180 non-member dairy farmers were randomly selected from three districts of Jharkhand. The data was collected from a total of 360 respondents using structured interview schedule. For present study, 135 crossbred, 58 indigenous cattle and 82 buffaloes were selected from the members; whereas 102 crossbred cattle, 36 indigenous cattle and 79 buffaloes were selected from non-members. Result: The findings revealed that dairy animals reared by cooperative members showed better reproductive and productive performance that their non-member counterparts. This is attributed to reason that JMF members adopted better dairy management practices due to availability of timely veterinary services, quality feed and training on improved dairy practices. Therefore, through increased participation in JMF; creating awareness and training regarding improved dairy management, adequate extension, breeding policy and financial support would further enhance the productivity among the dairy animals in the state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding trust between dairy farmers and other actors in the dairy chain, as well as the reciprocity norms among them are fundamental to encouraging collective action and decision-making to improve milk production and udder health. The objective of this study was to understand the relationships of trust between dairy farmers and other actors in the dairy chain related to udder health in the north of Antioquia. Mixed methods (cross-sectional and grounded theory) with a convergent triangulation design were used. A total of 216 dairy farmers participated in the quantitative component, and 17 dairy farmers and 9 veterinarians in the qualitative component, they were located in 9 milk-producing municipalities in the north of Antioquia. A characterization survey of the dairy farmers, a survey on reliability and udder health, an analysis of each farm's annual average BTSCC and CFU, and semi-structured interviews on the same topic were conducted. Problems were found in the biological indicators of udder health on the farms: BTSCC was poor for 67% of the dairy farmers, and CFU was poor for 22% of the dairy farmers. Veterinarians are the actors whom dairy farmers trust the most. Trust in dairy chain actors is complex, variable, and depends on many aspects. Trust representation, Socio-cultural Factors, Economic and Commercial Factors, Labor, Clinical and Laboratory Conditions of Milk, and Norms of Reciprocity constitute the categories of analysis when theorizing about trust and udder health. Each of the theoretical and emerging categories in this study describes actors, attitudes, behaviors, relationships between actors, and norms, allowing us to understand that trust between dairy farmers and other actors in the dairy chain in order to face the problems of udder health and milk production depends on technical processes, individual and collective human attitudes and behaviors, supply of services, political, regulative and economic determinants, the latter being transcendental in decision-making to invest in mastitis control and udder health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Research Communication investigates how well U.S. dairy farmers understand the voting behaviour and willingness to pay of consumers for products with production traits relevant to animal health, welfare and biotechnology. Accurately understanding consumer behaviour is key to making sound production decisions and reducing risks. Comparing survey data with the literature shows that U.S. dairy farmers correctly assess consumer attitudes and behaviour over animal welfare practices like pain-controlled dehorning but could improve knowledge of attitudes towards antibiotic use and novel biotechnologies like gene editing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Controlling the health of dairy cows is crucial for increasing global dairy food output. Dairy farmers are losing faith in the sector as cows suffer from a range of health issues, disease outbreaks that are unpredictable, and expensive breeding expenses. As a consequence, farmers must use efficient technology techniques for cow health monitoring in order to enhance milk output. This study looked at a range of wireless sensor-based automated dairy cow health monitoring systems. The fundamental purpose of wireless sensor network (WSN) based smart surveillance systems in agricultural optimization is to follow the health of dairy cows on a continual basis. This monitoring gadget must be installed in both local and remote farm areas so that interested farmers may monitor their cattle's movements throughout the day from several places. The data collected by the automated system would be kept in a database. Farmers may then obtain data using farm automation to execute effective farm management techniques. Furthermore, WSN is a low-cost device created exclusively for identifying illnesses in dairy cows. This achievement in sophisticated technology agricultural automation would assist to boost productivity by reducing human involvement. This article summarises all livestock tracking techniques, as well as the issues and challenges that they confront. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automatization has changed the interaction between cows and humans in subtle ways. Automated milking systems (AMS) have been used commercially since the early 1990s, first in the Netherlands, then in Western Europe and North America, before reaching Finland. By 2021, nearly 27 percent of Finnish dairy farms have adopted them. Based on fieldwork at AMS farms and Finnish trade journal items, this article argues that as technology users, both humans and cows are engaged in agential entanglements with milking robots. It highlights challenges that cows and farmers face in learning to use the milking robot, how it impacts their working and living rhythms, and how the technologized work with AMSs is gendered among dairy farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health of cows, particularly the condition of the udder, has a direct impact on the amount and quality of milk as well as the effectiveness of its production. However, the evaluation of udder and teat shapes in relation to mastitis in White Fulani (WF) and Sokoto Gudali (SG) cows is essential. The Morphological traits measured were Udder shape (Bowl, Irregular, Rounded, Trough and Pendulous) and Teat (Bottle, Conical and Cylindrical) shapes. Measurement was collected from 33 cows (20 WF and 13 SG cows). The data was analysed using IBM SPSS (2017) statistic (Version 25). Computations using means procedure were done to determine the means and standard errors for each trait and percentage was used to determine the variability in the population for Mastitis. Analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences between the two breeds for udder and teat shape for all traits. Bottle shaped teats were lower in distribution for SG and cylindrical for WF. However, White Fulani was higher in Somatic Cell Count (SCC) for cows with conical and cylindrical teat shapes. Bottle shaped teat had higher SCC in Sokoto Gudali compared with White Fulani. Cows with irregular udder shape also had the highest percentage of mastitis with White Fulani and Sokoto Gudali having 75% each. Cows with conical teat had the highest percentage of non-occurrence of mastitis with White Fulani and Sokoto Gudali having 75 and 80%, respectively. In conclusion, dairy farmers should rear cows with good Udder and teat shapes and, less Somatic Cell Counts in order to improve milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Food safety is a crucial aspect of human well‐being, covered under the second sustainable development goal (SDG). Sustainable food supply chains must ensure compliance with food safety standards from farm to fork. Consumers in developed countries are becoming ever more demanding regarding 'producers' compliance with food safety and quality standards. Most food products ending up in high‐end markets come from developing countries, predominantly agricultural economies characterised by fragmented and smallholder farmers. Owing to enhanced agricultural exports, developing countries are struggling to implement or improve food safety standards. This study examines the link between the willingness of smallholder dairy farmers to adopt minimum food safety standards and the country's ability to export agri‐food products. Moreover, it investigates the role of farmer's supply chain learning and level of value addition in this relationship. A cross‐section of 260 smallholder dairy farmers was surveyed from four districts of the Punjab province in Pakistan through purposive sampling. The data were collected using a questionnaire using a 5‐point Likert scale to gauge 'farmers' responses. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). We found significant mediation of supply chain learning and value addition between compliance with minimum food safety standards and the country's export potential. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on food safety by testing its relationship with a country's export potential and the factors affecting this relationship. Moreover, it provides food for thought for policymakers in food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study to measure the perception and identify risky practices at the farm and household level on commercial dairy farms in six districts of Haryana and Punjab states was conducted during 2018-19. Dairy farmers' responses were obtained through an interview using a well-structured interview schedule. Univariate Logistic regression models were used to analyze the potential predictors for the risky behaviours of respondents. Binary logistic analysis revealed that Wald statistics values were significant at a 1% level for the explanatory variables viz., education while occupation and herd size were found significant at a 5% level. Half of the respondents (52.50%) had a high perception towards brucellosis disease risk. About one-third of the respondents (28.33%) of the respondents were found in the category of moderate perceptual level. Pearson chi-square indicates that there were significant associations for health status variables such as landholding, annual income, herd size, and milk production with the perception of respondents. Poor understanding of brucellosis, the presence of manifold risky practices, and incorrect perception of respondents need an urgent policy for the prevention and control of brucellosis in farm animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cows are known carriers of Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum), a protozoa that can cause the gastrointestinal illness cryptosporidiosis in humans. Despite this potential exposure, dairy farmers tend to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect the milk from contamination, rather than to protect themselves from zoonotic diseases, such as cryptosporidiosis. In this study, cow feces were collected from individual cattle on dairy farms and analyzed for C. parvum using qPCR. Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) was used to determine the risk of cryptosporidiosis to the dairy farmer with and without the use of handwashing and PPE (gloves and masks). The annualized risk of cryptosporidiosis to dairy farmers was 29.08% but was reduced significantly in each of the three interventions. Among the individual interventions, glove use provided the greatest reduction in risk, bringing the annual risk of cryptosporidiosis to 4.82%. Implementing regular handwashing, the use of gloves and a mask brought the annual risk of cryptosporidiosis to 1.29%. This study provides evidence that handwashing and PPE use can significantly reduce the risk of cryptosporidiosis to farmers and is worth implementing despite potential barriers such as discomfort and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: In dairy farming, mastitis treatment is the most common reason for antimicrobial use. The overuse or misuse of antibiotics in agriculture has been associated with the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Traditionally, blanket dry cow therapy (BDCT), in which all cows receive antibiotic treatment, was used prophylactically to prevent and manage disease spread. In recent years, there has been a move toward selective dry cow therapy (SDCT), in which only clinically infected cows are treated with antibiotics. This study aimed to explore farmer attitudes toward antibiotic use (ABU), using the COM-B (Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior) model as a framework, to identify predictors of changing behavior toward SDCT and suggest interventions to encourage its uptake. Participant farmers (n = 240) were surveyed online between March and July 2021. Five items were found to be significant predictors of farmers having stopped BDCT: (1) having lower knowledge of AMR, (2) greater awareness of AMR and ABU (Capability), (3) feeling social pressure to reduce ABU (Opportunity), and (4) having greater professional identity, and (5) having positive emotions associated with stopping BDCT (Motivation). Direct logistic regression found that these 5 factors explained between 22 and 34.1% of the variance in making changes to BDCT practices. Additionally, objective knowledge was not correlated with current positive antibiotic practices, and farmers often perceived their antibiotic practices as more responsible than they actually were. A multifaceted approach, encompassing each of the predictors highlighted, should be taken to encourage farmer behavior change in relation to stopping BDCT. Additionally, as farmers' perceptions of their own behaviors may not align with their actual practices, awareness raising of what constitutes “responsible” behavior should be targeted at dairy farmers to motivate them to take action and adopt more responsible antibiotic practices.

Abstract Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a major threat to global health. Understanding how antimicrobials are used on dairy farms and stakeholder beliefs relating to their use is essential to ensure responsible antimicrobial usage (AMU) to tackle the emergence of AMR. This study explored Scottish dairy farmers’ knowledge about the meaning of AMR and antimicrobial activity, behaviour and practices related to farm AMU and attitudes towards AMR mitigation. An online survey was designed based on the findings of two focus groups and was completed by 61 respondents (7.3% of the total population of Scottish dairy farmers). Knowledge of antimicrobials and AMR was variable, and almost half of the participants believed that antimicrobials could have anti-inflammatory or analgesic activity. Veterinarians’ opinions and advice about AMU were ranked significantly more important than other social referents or advisors. The majority of farmers (90%) reported having implemented practices to reduce reliance on antimicrobials (e.g., selective dry cow therapy, AMU treatment protocols) and having reduced farm AMU over recent years. Feeding waste milk to calves is still widespread, being reported by up to 30% of respondents. The main factors described to hinder responsible farm AMU were limited facilities (e.g., lack of isolation pens for sick animals) and knowledge of appropriate AMU recommendations, followed by time and financial constraints. Most farmers (89%) agreed that it is important to reduce AMU on dairy farms, but fewer (52%) acknowledged that AMU on UK dairy farms is currently too high, suggesting a mismatch between their intention to reduce antimicrobials and AMU behaviour. These results indicate that dairy farmers are aware of AMR, and their self-reported farm AMU has been reduced. However, some do not clearly comprehend the activity of antimicrobials and their correct usage. More work is needed to improve dairy farmers’ knowledge of appropriate AMU and intentions to combat AMR. Farmers would benefit from more regular AMU discussions and advice from herd veterinarians, as they were described as highly trusted information resources. Training on how to reduce AMU should involve all farm staff administering antimicrobials and should be tailored to farm-specific barriers, such as limited facilities and workforce shortages.

Despite the progress observed over the past decades, food and nutritional insecurity remain the prominent challenges in Ethiopia. In this respect, improved farming practices and productivity-enhancing agricultural technologies have been identified as pathways out of these problems; these technologies are the priority agenda of the government policy in Ethiopia. Nonetheless, the impact of the adoption of milk safety practices on dairy farmers’ food and nutrition security has not yet been addressed, especially at the smallholder farmers’ level. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the adoption of milk safety practices on dairy farmers’ food and nutrition security in Ethiopia, using primary data collected from 410 dairy farmers. Generalized propensity score matching was used to evaluate the heterogeneous impact of the adoption of milk safety practices on the household food and nutrition security indicators (per capita food consumption expenditure and food consumption score). The findings reveal that the adoption of milk safety practices had a moderate impact on food consumption expenditure but had no significant impact on food consumption score. An ordered probit endogenous switching regression was also used to account for unobserved bias and check the robustness of the generalized propensity score estimates. Accordingly, the results are similar to the generalized propensity score estimates, and unobserved bias was not a problem. In general, the impact of adoption of milk safety practices on food and nutrition security of smallholder dairy farmers is moderate in Ethiopia. This might be because of the high compliance costs with the adoption of milk safety practices and the lack of quality-based pricing systems. Hence, creating an enabling environment, which in turn, encourages the adoption of milk safety practices would help improve positive effects of the adoption of milk safety practices on food and nutritional security.

AbstractIn Kenya, smartphones are readily available at lower cost than before, allowing farmers to access agricultural information through mobile applications. However, despite increased ownership of smartphones and the availability of mobile applications, the overall usage of mobile applications is still low. This research aimed to assess the factors that determine the adoption of mobile phone applications among smallholder dairy farmers in Tharaka Nithi County of Kenya. A multistage stratified sampling procedure was used to interview 427 farmers. A Double Hurdle approach was employed to analyze the drivers of decision and extent of adoption of mobile applications. The study revealed that 51% of the respondents used mobile applications to access agricultural information. The decision to use a mobile phone application was influenced by the sex of the household head, age and level of education, distance to the market center, farming (as the primary occupation), access to credit, channels of access to information, farmer’s perception on the cost and ease of use of the mobile application. Subsequently, farm size and the various channels through which farmers access information about the applications positively influenced the number of mobile applications used. This study recommends strengthening the existing extension pathways to disseminate more information regarding the use of mobile applications among smallholder farmers. Supporting public-private partnerships will be crucial in increasing the utilization of mobile phone applications.

Data from information technology has been crucial in advancing the agricultural and livestock industries, especially for Thai dairy farms located in tropical regions where sudden weather changes can occur. This study uses the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the innovation diffusion theory (IDT) to predict the Thai dairy farmers' intention to use a high-precision area-level weather warning technology through a mobile phone application. A questionnaire was collected from dairy farm owners in Thailand's central and northeastern regions, and the data was analyzed using stepwise multiple linear regression. The main factor influencing the acceptance of this technology was its compatibility with existing technology, and it needed to be available on mobile phones for instant access. The role of technology had to provide dairy farmers with information for decision-making, especially during extreme weather conditions, to mitigate potential damage. Training sessions and workshops on the implementation of this technology were necessary, and young farmers could share content on social media to promote its benefits. Service providers should set up call centers to help dairy farmers make decisions. This study identifies factors that can increase farmers' intentions to use digital technology. By addressing these factors, the adoption of technology can improve the efficiency and productivity of dairy farming in Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mastitis is a costly disease in dairy animals and significantly affects milk quality and quantity. The milk somatic cell count (SCC) is an acceptable method for diagnosing intramammary infections and evaluating the quality of milk. Mastitis is a multifactorial disease augmented by poor farm hygiene and milking practices. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to understand dairy farmers' knowledge about mastitis control, farm hygiene, milking practices, teat dipping, milk quality, milk SCC, the total bacterial count, social responsibility, etc., and its association with the bulk tank SCC using a structured questionnaire. The socioeconomic profiles, attitudes, and knowledge of farm managers from 63 dairy farms were analyzed. It was concluded that various parameters, such as the economic impact of mastitis, milking procedures, methods for subclinical mastitis detection, the awareness of the legal requirements of the SCC, and the total bacterial count (TBC), were associated with the SCC in bulk tank milk of dairy herds. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the association between the bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) and dairy farmers' knowledge about milk quality, mastitis control, and their socioeconomic characteristics. Additionally, we estimated the association between the bulk tank SCC and bulk tank milk hygienic quality in dairy herds. Bulk tank milk samples from 120 dairy herds enrolled in the milk quality payment program were collected for the determination of the SCC, the total bacterial count (TBC), the preliminary incubation count (PIC), the laboratory pasteurization count (PC), and the coliform count (CC). Based on the bulk tank SCC results, 63 herds were selected and categorized into three groups: (a) low SCC: ≤250,000 cells/mL (n = 16); (b) medium SCC: >250,000 ≤ 400,000 cells/mL (n = 24); and (c) high SCC: >400,000 cells/mL (n = 23). Socioeconomic profiles, attitudes, and knowledge of somatic cell count and milk quality were assessed using previously tested questionnaires, which were used to interview the herd managers of the 63 selected dairy herds. Among the findings, 87.0% of the dairy herds had an SCC < 400 × 103 cells/mL, and presented milk production as the main economic activity of the farm, whereas only 47.0% of dairy herds with an SCC > 400 × 103 cells/mL had milk production as the main economic activity of the farm (p < 0.031). In a total of 95% of the selected herds (n = 60), milking machines were used, with pipeline milking machines being more predominant, accounting for 70.8% in herds with a medium somatic cell count (SCC) and 78.3% in herds with a high SCC, as opposed to herds with a low SCC at 50% (p < 0.031). The frequency of dairy producers' awareness of the maximum legal requirements for the bulk tank SCC and TBC was higher in herds with a higher SCC than in herds with a medium SCC. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate a significant association between the bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) and dairy farmers' knowledge about milk quality, mastitis control, and socioeconomic characteristics. These findings emphasize the importance of knowledge and the socioeconomic profiles of dairy farms in maintaining and enhancing milk quality in dairy herds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the impact of participation in farmer groups on dairy farmers' adoption of sustainable farming practices in New Zealand. A spatial propensity score matching method is used to consider the spatial dependence and social connections between farmers in the decision‐making of farmer group participation and adoption of sustainable farming practices. The results show that farmers' decisions of farmer group participation are affected by their neighbors' choices, and participation in farmer groups has a positive effect on farmers' adoption of sustainable farming practices. The findings indicate the important role of social interactions in farmers' voluntary uptake of sustainable agricultural practices. Overall, the positive effect of farmer group participation on the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices highlights learning and knowledge spillover among farmers, which emerges as important to the formulation of sustainable farming policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the context of zoonosis, Bangladesh's small‐scale dairying is yet to frame satisfactory levels due to poor biosecurity practices. Objectives: This study intended to reveal the degree of knowledge, attitudes and biosecurity practices among Sylhet district, Bangladesh's small‐scale dairy farmers. We also focused on the association between biosecurity practices and the incidence of non‐specific enteritis in humans. Methods: A questionnaire‐based survey was conducted on the farmers' KAP via personal interviews of 15 farmers from the randomly selected fifteen small‐scale dairy farms. The questionnaire was developed with 6 questions for knowledge, 6 questions for attitude and 12 questions for the practice of biosecurity measures. Alongside that, data on the number of non‐specific enteritis cases experienced by the farmers or their family members were also recorded. Spearman correlation was used to find out the correlation among KAP variables and between practice scores and non‐specific enteritis incidences. Results: We found an insignificant (p > 0.05) influence of demographic characteristics over knowledge, attitude and biosecurity practices. Significant (p < 0.05) and strong correlations were found in knowledge–attitude (r = 0.65), knowledge–practice (r = 0.71) and attitude–practice (r = 0.64). Incidences of non‐specific enteritis and biosecurity measures' practice were also strongly correlated (r = −0.9232) and statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our study suggests that increasing knowledge and developing a good attitude are necessary to increase the adaptation of biosecurity measures as three of these factors are correlated. Moreover, farm biosecurity measures are closely related to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines dairy farmers' choices of marketing channels and factors that determine their choices using primary data collected from households in central Ethiopia. We use the multinomial logit model to analyze the data and investigate factors affecting farmers' choices of whether to sell to local consumers market, cooperative unions, hotels/restaurants, or milk processing plants. The results show that households' number of milking cows, household size, and the relative price of milk increase farmers' likelihood of choosing the milk processing plant channels compared to local milk consumers. Access to information, dairy farming experience, cooperative membership, and market information increase farmers' probability to choose cooperative market outlets while access to dairy extension services and modes of payment affect farmers' choices of hotel/restaurant channel. These findings imply that creating better extension services and information can improve farmers' awareness and the need to increase market efficiency through farmers' development capability to organize and access to updated information and better marketing channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a great percentage of farms in NewZealand as pastures, they aremainly important in contributing to the milk and meat industries. Pasture quality is highly affected by weeds.Weeds grow fast and invade pastures by seed pollination. They consume the nutrients,water, and otherminerals, and once they are bitter, cattle do not eat them. Therefore, dairy farmers have to allocate a significant portion of their budget and time to monitor and clean weeds. Unfortunately, most weed management tasks are manual with no consistent technology. Thus, the motivation behind this article was to design an object detection model for weed monitoring and control in pastures. The model was designed and tested on California thistle, a dominant and widespread weed on New Zealand pastures. Our study is one of the major model designs for identifying weeds in an inpasture environment, one of the most complicated environments for any object detection model. A synthetic methodology was used to create three types of datasets: plant-based, leaf-based, and mixed. The trainedmodel based on the leaf-based dataset is one of the major contributions of our work and has not been conducted by any other weed detection models. After models had been trained, tuning experimentation was undertaken to improve the model's performance. This involved studying the model's hyperparameters in various ranges and then recording their values at the optimum points. The improved model showed a 93% mAP accuracy in the detection of training images and over 95% accuracy for testing images. The experimentation showed that the leaf-based model was slightly better than other models. The model can automate highly any weed management system. The use of this model will save farmers time and money and help them reduce the errors of manual work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the production efficiency of dairy cattle business in Cisarua Bogor District. The research focuses on identifying factors that affect production efficiency and provides recommendations for improving the efficiency of dairy cattle business. The study utilizes a quantitative research approach and collects data through a survey questionnaire administered to dairy cattle farmers in Cisarua Bogor District. The findings of this research contribute to the understanding of the factors influencing production efficiency in the dairy cattle industry. The results highlight the importance of precision feeding, genetic factors, and farmers' skills in promoting production efficiency. The implications of these findings for dairy cattle farmers and recommendations for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale dairy farming plays a pivotal role in the development of rural economies and has become a key source for job creation and poverty alleviation. However, the survival rate of these enterprises is compromised due to multifaceted challenges. As a result, the newly established or emerging small scale dairy businesses are not sustainable. The objective of this paper is to therefore investigate the determinants affecting sustainability of small-scale dairy enterprises and to develop a framework for failure minimization. The study used purposive snowball sampling techniques to invite small-scale dairy farmers (SSDFs) in Bojanala Platinum District, North West Province, South Africa. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis (TCA) for factor derivation and ranked using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The study revealed the high cost of agricultural inputs, medication and electricity, followed by a lack of agricultural services, and unpredictable weather patterns due to climate change, which were regarded as priority factors proliferating high failure levels and unsustainability by the local farmers. Meanwhile, loadshedding and cattle theft were regarded as low priority factors affecting farming sustainability. The high level of failure in this industry diminishes the chances of farmers to obtain funding or credit; poorer farmers end up falling back into poverty as a consequence of market circumstances beyond their control. The paper concludes that small-scale dairy farming should be revised as part of a broader livelihood strategy by all stakeholders, while continuously pursuing alternative access points to achieve prosperous rural livelihoods, local market information and access, and risk optimization. With the prospects of future climate, geopolitical and environmental crisis, considering how local small-scale dairy farmers (SSDFs) react and use information technology is vital to their sustainability and providing policy relevant knowledge. Furthermore, the SSDFs should be exposed to agricultural funders in their localities, and also access to agricultural sector training authority (AGRISETA) services should be made available for local farmers to receive training for proposal writing to apply for funds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The burden of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) is high among dairy farmers, as they are involved in unacceptable working postures and movements. This study aims to assess the prevalence of WRMSDs and their associated factors among dairy farmers in Malur Milk Co-operative Society, Kolar District, Karnataka, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done from February 2022 to April 2022, among 150 dairy farmers aged 18 years and above. We collected socio-demographic, occupation, ergonomics and co-morbidities related details by administering a questionnaire. Assessment of musculoskeletal disorders was by Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and Mental health was assessed by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Results: The mean age was 40.96 13.49 years, and 66% of our study participants were males. The secondary occupation was agriculture(63%). Working hours per day was more than 8 hours in 19.3%. History of lifting heavy weights(78%), standing for long hours (56%) and sitting in squatting positions for long hours(66%) was present in this occupational group. The prevalence of WRMSDs was found to be 64.7%. The site of musculoskeletal disorders was found to be highest in the lower back (48.7%) and knees(45.3%). On multivariate analysis, belonging to the male gender [aOR = 0.33 (95%CI: 0.12-0.85)] and prolonged standing [aOR = 3.39 (95%CI: 1.46-7.89)] were the risk factors for WRMSDs. Conclusion: The prevalence of WRMSD is significantly high among dairy farmers in rural areas, affecting the lower back and knees predominantly. Education on ergonomics, routine physical activity, and accessibility to social security schemes will improve the health status of this community.

Considering the changing milk marketing structure in Pakistan, this study is aimed at investigating the factors influencing the farmers' choice of milk marketing channels in Punjab, Pakistan. The research has been carried by means of survey for data collection from farmers in upper and south Punjab. We interviewed 341 farmers in total, with 165 farmers from Upper Punjab and 156 farmers from South Punjab. The logit model was employed in this study to estimate the factors influencing the dairy farmers' decisions to participate in the modern and tradition milk supply channels. The empirical results indicate that the volume of milk sold, improved cattle breeds, milk prices, distance to milk collection unit and payment methods are significant factors that influence the choice of farmers between two market channels. Quantity of milk sold, and improved cattle breeds are important factors to select modern supply channels. However, milk prices, distance to the milk collection unit and long payment periods discourage farmers' participation in modern channels. The study suggests that provision of advance dairy technology, intuitional support, and investment in infrastructure could enhance farmers' capabilities of managing resources and hence could shift farmers towards commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the determining factors of the technical efficiency of dairy farms in Tunisia. A stochastic production frontier and a two-limit Tobit models were used to analyze technical efficiency (TE) for a sample of 108 Tunisian cattle breeders. The empirical results suggest that TE ranges from 45% to 96% and that a purebred herd composition and a favorable location for breeding system including pasture and grazed grass lead to greater efficiency. In addition, we found that dairy farmers could increase their performance by joining a professional organization. The implications of these finding for development strategies of the Tunisian dairy sector were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the perception of farmers on climate variability and change and what aspects were most affected by climate variability and change as well as what adaptation strategies can be carried out by farmers. This study was conducted in July – September 2021 at the dairy farm of a livestock farmer group in the city of Salatiga, Central Java Province, Indonesia. A total of 286 farmers from a total of 11 groups were used as respondents in this study. Each group had 26 ± 10.94 dairy cows. Data were obtained through interviews and filling out questionnaires. Descriptive statistical analysis and Friedman’s test (K-related sample test) with SPSS version 25 were used to analyze the data. The percentage of farmers who believe in the phenomenon of climate change was higher than those who do not. In general, farmers know about climate change through personal observations. Most farmers feel that the temperature continues to increase every year, but during the rainy and dry seasons, there was no change. Based on the farmer’s perception, the biggest impacts caused by climatic conditions were the availability of forage and water and milk production. Adaptation strategies that can be carried out by farmers to overcome the availability of feed were making silage, using agricultural waste and the role of the government was needed to provide concentrated subsidies. Drilling wells and rainwater storage can be used as a strategy to overcome restrictions on water availability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding farmers' attitude is instrumental in initiating/formulating any strategy to promote the adoption of technology. A scale was developed to analyze the attitude of women farmers towards climate-resilient dairy farming practices. A list of 50 statements comprising both positive and negative statements were collated and refined based on Edward's 14 principles and 35 statements were retained for administering to women farmers from non-sampling area for further analysis. Finally, "t" value for each statement, and found that 17 statements were having "t" value greater than 1.75. The 17 statements were rained for the final scale and administered for reliability and validity testing. Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.786 confirmed the internal consistency of the developed scale. The content validity of the scale was ascertained based on the judgment of the experts. The final developed scale can be used to measure the attitude of women farmers on climate-resilient dairy farming practices in the present context and beyond the study area with modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preference for dairy breeds is likely to depend on resource availability. This study attempted to analyze the distribution of the selected breeds of dairy animals among the farm size category, education, and experience of the dairy farmers. The study was conducted in the central region of Bihar and primary data was collected from January- March 2021, from 70 farmers in respect of the selected dairy animals using a prestructured interview schedule. Ease of rearing index was developed and the preference of the dairy farmers towards the selected dairy breeds was estimated. The key findings revealed that 55 per cent of farmers were marginal farmers and mostly preferred indigenous breeds like Graded Sahiwal and Graded Murrah. The farmers rearing Graded Sahiwal (67%) and Graded Murrah (69%) were having qualifications up to secondary education. Highly experienced farmers were rearing buffalo whereas Graded Sahiwal (67%) and crossbred (72%) animals were kept by farmers having experience less than or equal to 20 years. The ease of rearing index revealed that most of the farmers were preferring indigenous breed to rear because of its qualitative parameters. It can be concluded that farmers are having likeness towards indigenous breeds which needs to be promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines state-level trends in Bihar for determining patterns in farm diversification for the period 1990-91 to 2018-19, using the Simpson Index of Diversification (SID) and ordinal linear regression analysis to analyse the determinants. The study, conducted in the year 2022, reported that the cropping system at the state level is transforming from food grains to different high-value crops and allied farming sectors. The transformation was not uniform across the regions. The SID values have demonstrated how the agricultural economy has been more diverse over time, with some variations in the production of food and non-food crops. The result of multiple regressions has revealed earning members, social work participation, and government donations to be the major determinants of farm diversification, and various constraints were identified using the Garrett ranking method. Hence, the study suggests that policy support for the development of dairy farmers should be more focused on increased cropping intensity, insurance protection, investments in agricultural research and education, and technology development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective linkages among farmers play a crucial role in fostering growth within the agriculture sector. This study conducted during 2020-23 utilizes social network analysis to examine the backward and forward agribusiness linkages of farmers in Dairy Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. Through focused group discussions, a comprehensive list of private and government institutions acting as linkage actors for each FPO were compiled. The findings highlight that farmers primarily rely on strong informal ties for accessing agricultural information and services. Furthermore, a disparity is observed between the FPOs in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, with the former having a smaller number of linkage actors. The FPO in Bihar demonstrates stronger associations with government institutions and officials, while the FPO in Madhya Pradesh exhibits stronger connections with private entities, including the food processing industry, artificial insemination (AI) technicians, and veterinary doctors. The study provides valuable insights into the connectedness of network actors, underscores the importance of multi-actor alliances, and emphasizes the implications of centrality measures in determining network dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the influence of COVID-19 pandemic on livestock sectors in Sudur Paschim Province (far western province) of Nepal with a focus on the government's response. Analyzing provincial interventions in the livestock sector, we present findings from a primary survey and interviews with livestock farmers, agri-business traders, market agents, and key stakeholders across Kanchanpur, Kailali, Doti, and Achham districts. These districts represent the diverse agro-climatic conditions of far western Nepal. Using mixed methods, we combine qualitative and quantitative data to analyze the impact on livelihoods, business performances, employment, and income for livestock farmers and traders compared to the pre-pandemic scenario of 2019. The pandemic significantly disrupted the livestock and fresh meat production system due to supply chain disruptions, affecting all stakeholders - farmers, producers, suppliers, traders, agro-businesses, and consumers. The repercussions varied among these actors. Dairy farmers experienced a 50-60 percentage income loss, while poultry farmers had to sell birds at half price. The dairy, poultry, and fish sub-sectors were particularly hardhit. Despite government support, assistance primarily reached well-off farmers and larger businesses rather than smallholders. This study not only underscores lessons learned for Nepal in managing the pandemic and similar disasters but also offers insights for other countries in South Asia facing comparable constraints and opportunities. By investigating the pandemic's repercussions and government interventions in Nepal, this research contributes to better preparedness and response strategies for future crises in livestock and agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an innovative empirical application to the assessment of agri-environment measures on environmental and economic efficiency. Using a multi-equation representation with desirable technology and its accompanying undesirable by-production technology, we investigate the effects of agri-environment measures on farm-level environmental and economic efficiency. A combination of propensity score matching and a difference-in-difference approach is used to estimate the policy effect. The application focuses on a balanced sample of Bavarian dairy farms surveyed between 2013 and 2018. Results suggest that agri-environment schemes do not alter farms' economic efficiency, whereas environmental efficiency does not seem to be stimulated by schemes participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-seven dairy buffalo farmers from General Trias, Cavite, Philippines were interviewed using constructed questionnaires to describe their breeding and feeding management practices before and after the ease of the pandemic. The problems encountered and government services that were provided were also included. The stages of the pandemic were divided into three phases namely: pre-pandemic or Phase 1 (before and until 12 March 2020); the peak of the pandemic or Phase 2 (12 March 2020 - 28 February 2022); and Alert Level 1 or Phase 3 (01 March 2022 - 31 December 2022). Results showed a decreased use of AI and bulls in Phase 2 due to lockdowns and travel restrictions that temporarily hindered the breeding services in the locality. However, no changes were observed in the price per service for both breeding systems throughout the three phases. Most respondents (Phases 1; 63.83%, 2; 61.70%, and 3; 65.96%) practiced both pure grazing and cut-and-carry systems to feed their buffaloes. However, 59.58% did not add different types of feeds in Phase 2 because of limited mobility in the area. Moreover, the increasing price of feeds in Phases 1 (Php 21.13), 2 (Php 24.67), and 3 (Php 26.26) was attributed to limited transport. Meanwhile, the difficulty of harvesting grasses and buying feeds were the major challenges in feeding the buffaloes which was evident in Phase 2. In conclusion, the pandemic temporarily hindered the breeding and feeding activities of the respondents in Phase 2 but they slowly recovered when the travel restrictions and strict lockdowns were lifted in Phase 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The general practice of selection of dairy animals concentrating high milk production has unwanted consequences like occurrence of health problems and fertility issues. Functional traits, including health and fertility, have significant genetic association with production and reproduction performance traits. Functionally superior dairy cows are healthy and sustained producers of healthful food for calves and human consumption. Improvement in functional traits rises the economy of dairy farmers by reducing the cost of input. These facts emphasised the inclusion of functional traits along with other economically important traits in selection criteria for the improvement of dairy animals. Hence, most of the dairy advanced countries have included genetic evaluation of functional traits as a routine practice in their dairy cattle selection programmes. In India, comparatively limited works have been carried out on functional traits and it suggested exploring more on this area for further development of the dairy sector. This review details the importance of inclusion of functional traits in genetic evaluation of dairy cattle for overall development of the dairy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jabung village has a fairly high number of dairy farmers compared to other livelihoods, such as employees, farmers and laborers. This is a great potential for the village to become a special tourism village on dairy farmer edutourism. Currently, the village government is taking inventory of various potential villages that are developed to become tourist villages. The inventory is carried out in stages in line with the activities of the Regrestrasi Awal Sosial Ekonomi (regrosek) specifically for the economy in 2022. The purpose of this service activity is based on the village government's desire to empower a number of dairy farmers to become learning centers for other farmers outside Jabung Village. Preparation is carried out by fixing various supports for the maintenance of dairy cattle. Starting from feeding to milking. Stimulation in the form of animal feed chopping tools, electric cow milking, and the creation of a website following e-learning about dairy cattle

Improved cultivars (cvs.) of Brachiaria hybrid and Pennisetum purpureum forages have been studied extensively in research settings but still there is a paucity of information about their on-farm performance. This study was therefore set to evaluate the on-farm performance of Brachiaria hybrid cvs. Cayman and Cobra, and Pennisetum purpureum cvs. ILRI 16835 and Ouma in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. A total of 30 smallholder dairy farmers who cultivated these improved forage grasses were involved in this study. A 2 m × 2 m sub-plot was marked in established pasture plots and a standardised cut at a 5–7 cm stubble height was done at the beginning of this study. The forage growth performance was conducted from April–July, 2021 (dry period) in two phases of 6 weeks each. These cultivars were evaluated for their above-ground growth performance and nutritional values at the end of each phase. Plant height, leaf length, leaf widths, and number of tillers per plant among cultivars varied significantly (p < 0.05) while above-ground forage biomass did not vary among cultivars (p > 0.05). Crude protein values did not vary significantly among cultivars (p > 0.05), they were 131–141 g kg−1 dry matter (DM). These values were not able to meet the nutritional requirements of the lactating dairy cow. Brachiaria hybrid cv. Cayman had the lowest (p < 0.05) neutral detergent fibre (NDF, 539 g kg−1 DM) compared to other cultivars (545–571 g kg−1 DM), hence high digestibility. It was concluded that Cayman was the best cultivar for forage production in the Southern Highlands, Tanzania due to its low NDF content. However, lower biomass warrants mixing of Cayman with other feeds to meet the daily requirements of a lactating dairy cow.

ABSTRACT: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been largely attributed to antimicrobial use (AMU). To achieve judicious AMU, much research and many policies focus on knowledge translation and behavioral change mechanisms. To address knowledge gaps in contextual drivers of decisions made by dairy farmers concerning AMU, we conducted ethnographic fieldwork to investigate one community's understanding of AMU, AMR, and associated regulations in the dairy industry in Alberta, Canada. This included participation in on-farm activities and observations of relevant interactions on dairy farms in central Alberta for 4 mo. Interviews were conducted with 25 dairy farmers. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis and yielded several key findings. Many dairy farmers in this sample: (1) value their autonomy and hope to maintain agency regarding AMU; (2) have shared cultural and immigrant identities which may inform their perspectives of future AMU regulation as it relates to their farming autonomy; (3) feel that certain AMU policies implemented in other contexts would be impractical in Alberta and would constrain their freedom to make what they perceive to be the best animal welfare decisions; (4) believe that their knowledge and experience are undervalued by consumers and policy makers; (5) are concerned that the public does not have a complex understanding of dairy farming and, consequently, worry that AMU policy will be based on misguided consumer concerns; and (6) are variably skeptical of a link between AMU in dairy cattle and AMR in humans due to their strict adherence to milk safety protocols that is driven by their genuine care for the integrity of the product. A better understanding of the sociocultural and political-economic infrastructure that supports such perceptions is warranted and should inform efforts to improve AMU stewardship and future policies regarding AMU.