A system of milk production for small farmers

Abstract

The socioeconomic and biologic basis for the development of a prototype of a milk production system for the tropics is given. The system takes into account the resources and constraints that are characteristic of the small farmer in Central America. Ample use of pastures, moderate use of agricultural by-products and minimum use of whole milk are the characteristics of the feeding components. Moderate milk production levels per cow, but high production per unit are possible by using crossbred cattle of small or moderate body size and a fast-growing grass species. The system produces 15,000 Kg of milk/ha/year. Economic analysis under Costa Rican conditions indicates a net profit of 35% including all operational and fixed costs.