RIRDC - Research Compendium 1993

Rural Industries
Research & Development Corporation

Research Compendium 1993 - 1994

Research Project

ORGANIC ANIMAL HUSBANDRY

Objective

To provide growers with information on what is involved in organic animal husbandry systems. This will be available for all growers seeking to reduce their reliance on synthetic agricultural and veterinary chemicals.

Background

Interest in organic farming has grown rapidly over the last several years and outstripped available information on the topic, particularly in the area of animal husbandry. What information does exist on animal husbandry is not compiled in one publication.

Research

A study was made of various factors that affect organic animal production including:

soil condition;
proper diet;
breeding and genetic make-up;
shelter from adverse weather (wind, hail, cold, heat);
the stockpersons' handling of livestock in a low-stress manner; and
disease prevention through close observation of stock and early treatment of problems.

Outcome

A resource guide on organic animal husbandry has been published, distributed and widely advertised. The guide includes sheep, cattle, pigs and poultry with an emphasis on sheep and cattle.

Implications

The adoption of practices described in the guidebook will depend on:

producers' awareness of its availability;
availability of products used in organic, or low-input sustainable, farming systems; and
delays in commercialisation of research into organic livestock production.

RIRDC Project No: FA-1A

RESEARCHER: Sandy Fritz & Thomas Andresen

ORGANISATION: Fritz & Associates

RMB 247A Wattamolla Road

via BERRY NSW 2535

PHONE: 044 65 1531

FAX: 044 65 1129

PUBLICATIONS:

Fritz, S. 1993. Agriculture and the Consumer, Deakin Institute of Human Nutrition, Deakin University.

Fritz, S. and Andresen, T. 1994. Organic Animal Husbandry. Fritz & Associates.