Analysis of the results obtained after training of farmers from dairy farms

Jiury Mitev

Abstract: Given the trends in dairy cattle and sheep in 2009 in Thrakia University was created project “Establishment of extension service in the direction of dairy farming” lasting two and a half years at specific stages of implementation. The first year curriculum was provided by lectures and workshops. Next year and a half extension experts were focused on the promotion and practical implementation of good practices through changes to current farm management procedures. The technology applied in this part of the project included the introduction of “experience” and “recognized” models of management practice in dairy cattle farms through training on the farm. In both stages of the project, training participants were able to evaluate the work of consultants and project through form - questionnaire developed by a team of cattle farmers. From the analysis of the benefits that farmers indicated that they had acquired, can be inferred that they will participate in educational programs held in the villages near their homes and farms in which they operate, and convenient time is from 10:00 to 16:00. Training enables to obtain new and strengthening of already gained knowledge. Deficiencies or activities that need improvement are related to inadequate training out on the farm and difficulties in delivery of samples and obtaining results for them. In the survey on the willingness of farmers to the introduction of good management practices in dairy cattle farms there are clear trends related to their expectations to achieve better economic results in the farm. Any perspective of additional spending of money immediately decreased their desire to proceed with their implementation.

Keywords: dairy farming; extension service; good management practices; training; training benefits

Date published: 2023-03-06