The Dominican Agribusiness Board (JAD) expects positive results from a livestock program being implemented to restore the capacity of the country to export beef to the United States. The 175 model farms that make up this initiative will have modern equipping to meet the sanitation levels required in the United States market.
Osmar Benitez, the JAD president said: “The objective is to export US$100 million worth of meat in three years after the project is concluded, in another 18 months.”
The project also seeks to improve the quality of milk following the best management practices and international standards regarding the handling of this important food source. Benitez explained that 50% of the 175 model farms will work to improve the quality of milk and the remainder will work on improving animal nutrition. Benitez pointed out that these model farms will include cement floors, with roofed buildings and permanent water for carrying out the milking process. He noted that better milk is equal to better prices.
The cattle ranchers and dairy farmers will receive technical assistance, training to improve their management and production techniques, with particular interest placed on quality, nutrition, reproduction and animal health. In addition the farmers will be trained on the proper use of pastures and forages and in environmental conservation techniques.
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El Dia
6 July 2017
