Increasing the productivity and competitiveness of dairy farms using a collaborative model

35BV-KK-22-1-04995-PR001

Aušra Žliobaitė

Lietuvos Respublikos žemės ūkio rūmai

Kauno r. sav.

199 944,00 EUR

To demonstrate to small and medium-sized farms a model of cooperation, how, acting in a group, they could increase the productivity and competitiveness of their farms, without increasing the size of their farm (number of animals), but investing purposefully in measures related to increasing animal productivity (prevention of diseases in the herd, genetic improving the fund and drawing up feeding rations) and improving the overall management of the group's production processes, thus reducing the negative impact of farms on the environment.

Small and medium-sized dairy farms, milk producers, farmer groups and cooperatives, consulting specialists, veterinary and animal husbandry experts, scientists and other participants in the dairy sector seeking to increase farm productivity, competitiveness and sustainability of operations through a collaborative model.

This project focused on improving the productivity and competitiveness of dairy farms by applying a cooperation model among small and medium-sized farmers. The approach combines three key areas: animal health (veterinary care), genetics, and feeding management. The results show that cooperation between farmers allows more efficient farm management without increasing herd size. By improving herd health, optimizing feeding rations, and selecting better genetics, farms can increase milk yield, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency. At the same time, this approach helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports more sustainable farming. Practical examples from farmer groups demonstrate that cooperation can lead to higher milk production, better product quality, and stronger bargaining power in the market. Joint activities such as shared sales, training, and advisory services also improve decision-making and farm performance. The main recommendation is to encourage farmers to work in groups and adopt integrated management practices combining veterinary care, genetics, and feeding. This enables farms to achieve higher productivity, lower costs, and better market competitiveness without expanding production scale.

https://www.kaimotinklas.lt/lt/projektai/pieno-ukiu-produktyvumo-ir-konkurencingumo-didinimas-taikant-bendradarbiavimo-modeli