Proximity to the organic model of dairy goat systems in the Andalusian mountains (Spain)

Interest is growing in promoting sustainable animal production systems because of their healthy relation to the natural environment. Ecological systems stand out, as they pay special attention to preserving natural resources, promoting biodiversity, guaranteeing animal well-being, and obtaining healthy products from raw materials and natural processes. The objective of this study is to evaluate proximity to the ecological model of dairy goat systems in mountainous areas of Andalusia, Spain. Furthermore, those aspects which could be improved in order to convert these farms into ecological systems were analyzed. A questionnaire was designed for the farms, including 53 variables integrated into 10 indicators. Twenty three farms were surveyed (5 meat farms and 18 milk farms), of which 6 (2 meat and 4 milk) are certified in ecological production. The ecological farms show an 81% fit with the agroecological model for animal production, and the conventional farms show a 55% fit. Principal actions which should be carried out in order to adapt conventional Andalusia mountain systems to the ecological model are: (i) diminishing outside dependence on concentrated feed, (ii) improving quality of natural grasses and optimizing their use by the animals, (iii) adapting animal productive level to environmental carrying capacity, (iv) observing strict sanitary conditions of the facility and equipment, using products permitted by ecological goat farm regulations, (v) improving farmer training, particularly in relation to management, and (vi) promoting direct marketing channels and farmer participation in value added of processed goat products