Value creation through farmer-led participatory development.

Antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have been of concern for decades. To support implementation of AMU reduction strategies, a participatory development approach was used to recruit nine regional groups of farmers supported by their veterinary practices. They were involved in a series of three workshops. Workshops were designed to identify practical strategies for AMU reduction that farmers would trial within their farming systems. Participating farmers successfully demonstrated a reduction in AMU. Value flow began with farmers accepting the invitation to participate in a project that would benefit both themselves and their industry. They saw potential to make a proactive contribution to the reduction of antimicrobial use on-farm. This resulted in them enacting practical strategies they had designed for their own situations. The value this realised was improved animal health and reduced antibiotic expenditure. Veterinary practices realised value through stronger client relationships and farmers adopting 'best practice'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]