1.Identify and discuss feed resources available in Ethiopia for dairy cows
2.Explain the methods of feeding calves, heifers and milking cows.
3.Explain the factors to be considered during Establishing dairy farm
4.Write farmstead structure of dairy farm and necessary equipment for dairy farm
Within introduction,conclusion and reference
1. Feed resources available in Ethiopia for dairy cows:
Ethiopia has a wide range of feed resources suitable for dairy cows. Some of the feed resources available in the country include:
- Natural pastures: Ethiopia's vast rangelands provide abundant natural pastures for dairy cows. These pastures consist of grasses, legumes, and herbs that can be grazed by cows.
- Crop residues: Crop residues such as wheat straw, rice straw, and maize stalks are readily available feed resources in Ethiopia. These residues can be utilized as forage for dairy cows, either by direct grazing or after processing.
- Fodder trees and shrubs: Ethiopia is rich in fodder trees and shrubs that can be used as a source of feed for dairy cows. Examples include Leucaena, Sesbania, and Calliandra.
- Cultivated forages: Various forage crops can be grown in Ethiopia specifically for feeding dairy cows. Common cultivated forages include Napier grass, Rhodes grass, and different legume species like alfalfa and vetch.
- Agricultural by-products: Ethiopia's agricultural sector generates a significant amount of by-products that can be utilized as feed for dairy cows. Examples include wheat bran, oilseed cakes, and molasses.
- Commercial concentrates: Commercial feed concentrates, such as dairy meal and mineral supplements, are also available in Ethiopia. These concentrates provide essential nutrients necessary for optimal milk production.
2. Methods of feeding calves, heifers, and milking cows:
- Calves: Calves should ideally be fed colostrum, the first milk produced by the cow after calving, as it contains important antibodies and nutrients for the newborn calf's health. After colostrum, calves can be fed milk replacers or whole milk until they are weaned. Solid feed, such as calf starter or grain, can be introduced gradually after a few weeks.
- Heifers: Heifers are young female cows that have not yet calved. They require a balanced diet to support their growth and development. Heifers should be provided with good-quality forage, such as grass or hay, along with concentrates that contain essential nutrients. Adequate nutrition is crucial to ensure proper body size and reproductive performance in heifers.
- Milking cows: Milking cows have higher nutritional requirements than calves and heifers due to the demands of milk production. They should have access to good-quality forages, such as pasture or hay, as well as concentrates to meet their energy, protein, vitamin, and mineral needs. The feeding ration should be formulated based on the cow's body weight, milk production level, and stage of lactation.
3. Factors to be considered during establishing a dairy farm:
- Location: The location of the dairy farm should have easy access to good-quality water sources, markets for milk, and sufficient land for grazing and forage production.
- Breeding and genetics: Selecting appropriate dairy breeds and genetics that are well-adapted to local conditions and have good milk production potential is essential.
- Housing and infrastructure: Properly designed and constructed housing facilities are necessary for the comfort and health of the dairy cows. It is vital to have appropriate infrastructure for milking, feeding, and manure management.
- Feeding and nutrition: Adequate feed resources and a well-balanced feeding program should be established, taking into consideration the nutritional requirements of the cows and the availability of feed resources.
- Health management: A sustainable and effective health management program, including preventive measures, vaccination protocols, and regular veterinary care, is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of the dairy cows.
- Marketing and milk value chain: Consideration should be given to the availability of milk markets, processing facilities, and the potential for value addition to maximize income generation from milk sales.
4. Farmstead structure and necessary equipment for a dairy farm:
Farmstead structure:
- Milking parlor: A dedicated area equipped with milking machines or milking stations where cows are milked.
- Housing: Adequate housing facilities that provide shelter, protection from extreme weather conditions, and proper ventilation for the cows.
- Feed storage: Space for storing bulk feed, such as hay, silage, and concentrates, to ensure a continuous supply of feed throughout the year.
- Water supply: Sufficient and clean water sources for drinking, cleaning, and sanitation purposes.
Necessary equipment:
- Milking machines: Automated or semi-automated milking machines to streamline the milking process and ensure hygiene.
- Feeding equipment: Equipment such as feeding troughs, feed bins, and mixing wagons for proper feed management and distribution.
- Cooling and storage equipment: Refrigeration units or bulk milk tanks to cool and store the milk after milking.
- Cleaning equipment: Brushes, hoses, and sanitizing agents for the cleaning and sanitation of the milking parlor, equipment, and housing.
- Handling equipment: Wheelbarrows, loaders, and tractors for handling and transporting feed, manure, and other farm inputs.
- Fencing and security equipment: Fencing materials and security measures to protect the cows and the farm from predators and theft.
Introduction:
Dairy farming is an important agricultural activity in Ethiopia, contributing to food security and rural livelihoods. However, the success and profitability of a dairy farm depend on various factors, including access to appropriate feed resources, proper feeding and management practices, and well-designed infrastructure and equipment. This discussion will explore the feed resources available in Ethiopia for dairy cows, the methods of feeding calves, heifers, and milking cows, the factors to consider when establishing a dairy farm, as well as the farmstead structure and necessary equipment.
Conclusion:
Ethiopia offers a diverse range of feed resources suitable for dairy cows, including natural pastures, crop residues, fodder trees, cultivated forages, agricultural by-products, and commercial concentrates. Calves, heifers, and milking cows have different nutritional requirements, and proper feeding methods must be employed for each category. Factors such as location, breeding and genetics, housing, feeding and nutrition, health management, and milk marketing must be carefully considered when establishing a dairy farm. The farmstead structure should include facilities for milking, housing, feed storage, and water supply, along with necessary equipment such as milking machines, feeding equipment, cooling and storage units, cleaning equipment, handling equipment, and security measures. By considering these factors and providing the necessary resources, a dairy farm in Ethiopia can thrive and contribute to the country's dairy sector.
References:
1. Sintayehu Mekasha, Gebremedhin Woldesenbet, and Tesfaye Alemu. (2010). Feed Resources and Feeding Systems for Dairy Production in Smallholder Systems in Ethiopia. International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI).
2. El-shaikh, H., et al. (2014). Feeding Dairy Cattle in the Tropics — A Review of Feeding Strategies for Improved Milk Production. IntechOpen.
3. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2011). Feeding and nutrition of dairy cows in smallholder farms in East Africa. FAO Animal Production and Health Guidelines No. 4.
4. Berhanu Gebremedhin and Tegegne Yilma. (2005). Baseline Survey of the Dairy Value Chain in Selected Sites of Ethiopia. International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI).