This book presents a concept for implementing a mass balance approach
toward developing an effective eco-friendly, livestock farming system
independent of external energy input. In this context it describes a
modern, integrated farming system, and includes comprehensive technical
information explaining the design and evaluation of manure management
systems, and modeling and operational tools.
It first discusses the mass balance operating process, highlighting the
difference between imported and exported mass across the farm boundary.
Estimating mass balance can provide critical information for
(comprehensive) nutrient management planning and for managing the
movement of nutrients and manure. It then explains the estimation of
whole-farm P mass balance using a suitable model system. The subsequent
chapters provide updated information on management aspects of
livestock-farming and generation of multiple job opportunities, and also
explore various aspects of livestock farming operational protocols like
housing and management; nurture of rams, ewes and lambs, new born calves
and heifers; care of buck, doe and kid- nutrition flushing; concept zero
grazing-systems; disease control and management; integrated goat
farming; and crop-livestock integration.
Further, the book addresses crop-livestock integration; energy autonomy
in cattle farming; value added biopharmaceuticals from cattle farming;
CAPEX for cattle farming; concepts of cattle farming; detrimental
effects of the industry; topographic and edaphic factors, and thermal
stress on livestock growth and development; socioeconomic development;
and water requirements for livestock.
The book concludes with the most important issue in the field of
agriculture and veterinary science: "Livestock Farming with Care,"
describing sustainable, eco-friendly livestock farming by highlighting
issues like animal feed vs. human food; agricultural GDP vs livestock,
and factors affecting the sustainability of livestock farming. Given its
scope, this book is a valuable resource for researchers and students
alike, and will also appeal to practitioners in the field of livestock.
