Page 152 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Planning for a dairy cattle enterprise
Planning is the first step in developing a dairy cattle enterprise. It provides
direction and helps to reduce risks. A good plan includes clear goals and actions to
reach them. Goals can focus on milk production, calf rearing or milk processing.
Planning could be short-term, medium-term or long-term, and it is a continuous
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process in enterprise management.

A complete plan shows what and how to produce, how much, how to market
products, and how to manage possible problems/risks. Production challenges
such as animal parasites and diseases, feed shortages or price fluctuations must
be considered early. Planning must also consider the strengths of the enterprise,
opportunities as well as weaknesses and threats. Comparison with competitors in
the area should be made. This helps to create better ways to produce and market
dairy products and gain an advantage in the market.
The plan should include technical points such as breed selection, farming system
selection, housing, feeding, parasite and disease management, breeding, milking
and marketing. Choosing a proper site/area is very important. The area must be
well-drained and accessible, with a reliable source of water and power (such as
electricity). Being near to market or town is a relative advantage.

Other important planning points include the number of animals to begin with.
This depends on the land size, feed availability and initial capital (money) to
purchase inputs and pay for associated services. The plan must also show where
animals will come from. Good suppliers are trusted farms with healthy, high-
performing cattle.

Prepare a realistic budget showing all costs, projected output and expected profit.
Costs for items like housing, feed, drugs, tools, labour and loan services must
be included. Feed supply must also be planned carefully. Forage/pasture can be
grown on available land or bought. The sources of alternative feeds, for example,
hay or silage, must be considered. One dairy cow may require up to 60 kg of fresh
grass daily. If hay is used, 15 kg per day may be required. A consistent supply of
clean water and access to quality veterinary services must also be included in the
plan.

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