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Beef Cattle Raising and Its Contribution to Farmers' Productivity In the Sltiung transmigration area, West Sumatera, Indonesia
Thesis Abstract:
The study was conducted in the Sitiung I Transmigration Area, West Sumatera, Indonesia. It aimed to determine the sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the transmigrants; determine the beef cattle management and feeding practices as well as the contribution of beef cattle to the farmer's income; identify the problems affecting the implementation of the beef cattle component of the transmigration program and suggest possible solutions; and recommend action plans to improve the livestock component of the transmigration program.
Findings showed that the majority (77%) of the farmer-respondents were middle-aged (29-49 years old). They belonged to households with at least two members. All farmer-respondents had the same size of landholding (1.25 ha). Farming was their main source of livelihood (74.32% of the total income). Most of the fanners were experienced in beef cattle raising. Sharing system was the most popular source of financing for beef cattle raisers. Grazing was the feeding method used during part of the day; additional grass was given as the need arises. Agricultural by-products were not commonly used as feeds for cattle, and the majority of the farmers were completely dependent on cattle power in all farming activities.
Based on simple linear correlation analysis, there was evidence that raising beef cattle and farmers' income were positively associated. Beef cattle raising contributed only 13.4 percent of the farmers' gross income. but beef cattle production cannot be separated from farming activities. It was the source of draft power, organic fertilizer, and savings. Farmers still practice the traditional system of beef cattle raising and other farm activities such that low crop yields and poor animal performance affected their livelihood. Off-farm activities were another source of the farmers' livelihood. However, this did not affect the activities in cattle raising because there was excess family labor for care and management of animals.
An action planning model was presented. The components were improved livestock management, feeds and feeding, accelerated cattle production, and extension and training.
