Year 2024, Volume 9, Issue 1
| Year : | 2024 |
| Volume : | 9 |
| Issue : | 1 |
| Authors : | Athanasios BATZIOS, Alexandros THEODORIDIS, Thomas BOURNARIS |
| Title : | A LINEAR PROGRAMMING MODEL FOR BETTER DECISION MAKING IN THE GOAT SECTOR |
| Abstract : | In this study a linear programming model was applied and the main structural and economic characteristics of the optimal organization of Greek goat farms were analyzed. The analysis was based on farm accounting data collected from 96 goat farms in Northern Greece, through face-to-face interviews with farmers. The farm size in terms of does (adult female animals) was used as a classification criterion and three farm size groups were formulated (small/medium/large size farms). Based on technical and economic indicators a linear programming model was implemented for each of the three size groups of farms and the optimal plans under which farms maximize their gross margin were estimated. The optimal plans reveal the main structural characteristics of the farms and indicate the adjustments required to fully exploit the available technology. The results show that all farms should increase the number of animals they rear under the optimal plan. Small farms make full use of the available grazing land, while there is a small reduction in the use of grazing land in medium and large size farms. The farms under the optimal plans recommend reduce production of feed on-farm (especially of the concentrates) and procure feed from the market, and produce cheese on-farm. The optimal structure indicates that goat farming should return to its traditional features and become a purely livestock farming activity operating under extensive production systems, making use of pastures of mountainous/disadvantaged areas, and avoiding excessive use of fodder. Under the production pattern, the farms will reduce production costs and improve their resilience and sustainability. |
| For citation : | Batzios, A., Theodoridis, A., Bournaris, T. (2024). A linear programming model for better decision making in the goat sector. AGROFOR International Journal, Volume 9. Issue No. 1. pp. 52-60. DOI: 10.7251/AGREN2401052B |
| Keywords : | Dairy goat farming, linear programming, profit maximization, decision making. |
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ISSN 2490-3434 (Printed)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
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