University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) - Research portal
Gewählte Master / Diploma Thesis:
Carina Stelling
(2011):
Weidehaltung von Milchziegen im Biolandbau in Europa.
Master / Diploma Thesis - Institut für Nutztierwissenschaften (NUWI),
BOKU-Universität für Bodenkultur,
pp 59.
UB BOKU
obvsg
- Abstract:
- The aim of this master thesis was to document goat husbandry especially pasture management in organic farming across Europe in order to contribute to an exchange of knowledge between countries and farms. Two questionnaires were developed, the first targeted at official authorities (n=18), the second targeted at farmers (n=51), in which information about structure of goat husbandry in countries/ on farms, pasture management, veterinary treatment and national regulations was collected. It was found, that the structure of organic goat husbandry differs strongly between countries and farms in Europe. Keeping goats on pasture was perceived as important for the animals´ health and well being of goats and as a matter of course in organic goat farming. However several problems linked to pasture husbandry were reported. The worm burden was identified as the main problem. Climate and weather conditions were also considered to be of major importance. A well developed pasture and health management turned out to be essential for successful organic goat farming. A regular rotation of paddocks and faecal sampling are deemed to be the most important measures. It can be concluded that while most of the goat farmers seem to have broad knowledge about different methods the approach taken varies from farm to farm. Farmers appeared to be interested in preventive and alternative ways of improving pasture and health management. Consequently it is a desirable goal to intensify the exchange of the existing knowledge about organic goat husbandry and spread it.
- Beurteilende(r): Winckler Christoph
- 1.Mitwirkender: Leeb Christine