Systems In Organic Dairy Production |
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Authors: | Frank W Oudshoorn Reint Jan Renes Imke J M De Boer |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Aarhus, Research Centre Bygholm, 8700 Horsens, Denmark |
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Abstract: | The aim of this study was to explore stakeholder perceptions of the contribution of an Automatic Milking System (AMS) to sustainable
development of organic dairy production in Denmark and the Netherlands. In addition, reasons for the current difference in
AMS use on organic dairy farms between both countries were explored. To answer above mentioned aims, farmers and advisors
in both countries were interviewed using a focus group approach. Questions of the interviews were based on a literature review
on sustainability issues affected by introduction of AMS. Participants expressed no moral problems regarding AMS use. They,
however, pointed out uncertainty about the economic gain, difficulties with grazing, adaptation problems to technology, and
image problems towards consumers. The latter results from a reduction in grazing time affecting both animal welfare and product
quality. The participants did not recognize eutrophication, as result of high stocking density on farmstead lots, as a problem
caused by AMS. The milk quality problem related to AMS use, although acknowledged as crucial towards consumers, was not prioritized
very highly, especially not by the farmers in both countries. All groups were, however, unanimous in their perception of how
important image was as far as the consumers are concerned. The perception analysis revealed that Dutch participants were more
concerned about the economic payoff of AMS use, and showed more reluctance towards enlargement than Danish ones. In addition,
they acknowledged the small-scale naturalness of organic production. These differences in perception could possibly explain
observed differences in AMS use in organic dairy production between Denmark and the Netherlands. |
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Keywords: | automatic milking system grazing organic dairy farming perception stakeholders sustainability |
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