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
Introduction:
Dairy farming is an essential part of agriculture in Ethiopia, contributing significantly to the country's economy. It plays a crucial role in providing milk, meat, and other dairy products to meet the growing demands of the population. To ensure the productivity and profitability of a dairy farm, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the available feed resources, methods of feeding, and the factors to consider when establishing a dairy farm.
1. Feed resources available in Ethiopia for dairy cows:
a) Grazing Lands: Ethiopia has vast areas of natural grazing lands, which provide an abundant source of feed for dairy cows. These lands consist of various grasses, shrubs, and legumes. However, proper management and rotational grazing practices are necessary to optimize the use of grazing resources.
b) Crop Residues: Crop residues, such as straw, husks, and stubble leftover after harvesting crops, are commonly used as feed for dairy cows. Crop residues require appropriate processing (chopping, grinding, or ensiling) and supplementation with additional protein sources to improve their nutritional value.
c) Pasture/Forages: Ethiopia has diverse agro-ecological zones suitable for growing a variety of forage crops like Napier grass, Rhodes grass, Sudan grass, and different legumes. These crops are cultivated and preserved as hay or silage to provide a high-quality source of feed throughout the year.
d) By-Products: Various agricultural by-products, including bran, oilseed cakes, brewers’ grains, and molasses, are available in Ethiopia. These by-products can be utilized as energy and protein supplements for dairy cows, enhancing their nutritional intake.
e) Concentrates: Commercially formulated concentrates, produced from locally available ingredients like maize, wheat, barley, and oilseed cakes, are readily accessible in Ethiopia. These concentrates are designed to meet the nutritional requirements of dairy cows and can be used as a supplement to forages and crop residues.
2. Methods of feeding calves, heifers, and milking cows:
a) Calves: Calves should be provided with colostrum immediately after birth. Afterward, they can be fed milk or milk replacer in appropriate quantities for their age and weight. Solid feed, such as calf starter or a mixture of concentrates and forages, should be introduced gradually at around three weeks of age. Adequate clean water is also essential for calf rearing.
b) Heifers: Heifers should be provided with a balanced diet to support their growth and development. This includes a combination of high-quality forages, concentrates, and minerals. The feeding program may involve offering both grazed forages and conserved forages/hay, along with appropriate supplementation based on their nutritional requirements.
c) Milking Cows: Milking cows require a balanced diet to support milk production and maintain good health. The diet typically includes a mix of high-quality forages (such as grazed pasture, hay, or silage) and concentrates, along with mineral and vitamin supplements. The amount and composition of the feed will vary based on the stage of lactation, body condition score, and milk production goals.
3. Factors to consider when establishing a dairy farm:
a) Location and Land Availability: The farm should be situated in a suitable location with sufficient land for grazing, cultivating forages, and constructing necessary infrastructure.
b) Breed Selection: Choose appropriate dairy cattle breeds that are well adapted to the local climate and have high milk production potential.
c) Housing and Infrastructure: Construct suitable housing facilities for the animals, including barns, milking parlors, calf pens, and storage facilities for feed and equipment.
d) Feed Management: Ensure availability of adequate feed resources, design feed storage and handling systems, and establish proper feed management practices.
e) Water Supply: Access to clean and sufficient water for drinking, cleaning, and irrigation purposes is essential for dairy farming.
f) Breeding and Health Programs: Develop proper breeding and health management protocols in consultation with veterinarians to ensure the well-being and productivity of the animals.
g) Financial and Marketing Aspects: Evaluate the financial viability of the project, including investment costs, operational expenses, and potential market opportunities for dairy products.
h) Knowledge and Expertise: Acquire the necessary knowledge and skills in dairy farming techniques, management practices, and animal husbandry through training and consultation with experts.
i) Regulatory Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the local regulations, permits, and certifications required for running a dairy farm.
4. Farmstead structure and necessary equipment for a dairy farm:
a) Farmstead Structure:
- Milking Parlor: A dedicated space with proper infrastructure and equipment for milking cows.
- Barns and Sheds: Housing facilities for animals, including separate areas for calves, heifers, and milking cows, with appropriate bedding and ventilation.
- Feed Storage: Silos, hay sheds, or bunkers for storing forages, crop residues, and concentrates.
- Water Supply: Adequate water sources and proper plumbing systems for supplying clean water to the animals and cleaning facilities.
- Manure Management: Facilities for collecting and managing manure, such as slurry pits or storage tanks.
b) Necessary Equipment:
- Milking Equipment: Milking machines, bulk milk coolers, milking buckets, and sanitization equipment.
- Feeding Equipment: Feed mixers, choppers, shredders, and feeding troughs.
- Animal Handling: Chutes, gates, and restraining equipment for handling animals during medical treatments or reproductive procedures.
- Farm Vehicles: Tractors, trailers, or trucks for transporting feed, animals, and farm inputs.
- Storage and Cleaning: Containers, bins, and cleaning equipment for storing and handling feed, as well as cleaning and sanitizing the farm premises.
By considering the aforementioned factors and ensuring appropriate feed resources, feeding techniques, and infrastructure, dairy farming in Ethiopia can be developed sustainably, allowing farmers to meet the increasing demand for dairy products while generating income and contributing to the country's economy.