Double the benefits: using legumes to boost both milk and rice production. Validated RNRRS Output.
Abstract
This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID's 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.
Summary for Project titles: R6610: Introduction of fodder legumes into rice-based cropping systems and their use as supplements in straw-based rations for dairy cattle in Bangladesh and R6619: Husbandry strategies for improving the sustainable utilisation of forages to increase profitable milk production from cows and goats on smallholder farms in Tanzania.
Growing forage legumes with rice, either together or in succession, has been shown to be one answer to the feed shortages that face dairy cattle keepers in Bangladesh—where intensive rice production leaves little land available for forage production. Plus, as an added bonus, growing legumes also increases soil fertility—which in turn boosts rice production. Since feed is the major outlay for dairy producers, making cheaper, higher quality fodder available in this way would have a real and long-lasting impact on the lives of the poor. Cheap, easy-to-make urea molasses blocks are another way of boosting milk production, as animals gain essential nutrients as they lick them.
The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Current Promotion, Impacts On Poverty, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (12 pp.) taken from the CD.
Citation
LPP08, New technologies, new processes, new policies: tried-and-tested and ready-to-use results from DFID-funded research, Research Into Use Programme, Aylesford, Kent, UK, ISBN 978-0-9552595-6-2, p 67.