Sustainable meat production model in the humid Caribbean

Sustainable meat production model in the humid Caribbean

Thematic area:
Integrated management of the productive system
Productive system:
Bovine meat
Geographic coverage:
Humid Caribbean region

Sustainable meat production model in the humid Caribbean

Description

This production model is based on the implementation of an intensive rotational grazing system, which includes the use of high production and nutritional quality pastures (Guinea Pastures, Agrosavia Sabanera, Mombasa, and Star grass) for the management of bovines, such as Zebu, Creole cattle, and their crosses. In addition, the management of trees, weeds, and shrubs is promoted, which contributes to improving soil quality within a comprehensive system of forage supply and consequently increases the comfort of livestock farming.

The rotation of paddocks is also considered, suggesting eight paddocks of 2,500 square meters, with three days of occupation and 21 days of rest, but it is flexible depending on the implementation area, pasture used, and others. The important thing is that the animals do not remain in the same pasture for more than three days, and the ideal is a single day or several movements a day and defining the optimal time for grazing the pasture before flowering or when the first basal leaves begin to dry.

It is important to consider that, at the beginning of each fattening cycle, animals must be vitaminized and vaccinated against officially controlled diseases and dewormed, if possible, avoiding the use of broad-spectrum products such as ivermectins, which are harmful to soil macrofauna.

This technological offer is recommended for implementation in the Caribbean Region in the Department of Córdoba.