Farmer's Testimony: Victor Reyes

INTRODUCTION

It's indeed an honor speaking in front of you today to articulate on my practical experiences in goat production. At first, I feel hesitant to be telling you I lost more than three hundred head during my first year of operation. But on the other hand I am compelled to tell you this bitter and sweet experience in my goat production. For at the end of the day, we are all here to learn and the bottom line is to contribute to the improvement of the goat industry.

Bluntly put it, I was simply attached to my goats that despite my losses I endured and withstand the test of time and here I am with my thousand goats at my farm. How I managed is basically the theme I shall be discussing with you.

Before I will be carried away, I would like to introduce my self. I am Victor Reyes, owner of Bondoc Peninsula Livestock and Forestry Development located in Villa Reyes, San Narciso, Quezon. To our honored and distinguished guests, participants, and fellow goat raisers, a pleasant day.

BACKGROUND OF THE FARM

To start, my farm is located in Villa Reyes located in San Narciso, Quezon that overlooks the Garay Gulf. Total aggregate farm area is 200 hectares. The farm is situated 268 kilometers south of Manila and 113 kilometers from Lucena City.

The Municipality of San Narciso, like other rural communities, derives mainly its income from agri-based industries. But the municipality is endowed with land and water resources. Fishing industry thrives well along with crop production.

Its unique mountainous landscape is primarily covered with decade old coconut trees. Copra is one of the major products of the municipality. The vegetation complements livestock production - a technology under coconut plantation espoused by the PCARRD.

You're right. The farm was originally designed for cattle production under coconut plantation. To date, we maintain hundreds of cattle and carabaos with almost a hundred dispersed among the coconut farmers. While carabao served as draft animal in the farm - augmenting family income, they also served as medium in transporting agricultural produce particularly copra.

Reforestration and Goat Complementation

The romance with goats started way back in the early 90s but was not given serious attention. I started momentarily with a pair of Alpine but turned over to my brother. It was he who initiated production with Alpine breed.

In 1995 I embarked on reforestation project with Narra, Nim tree, Tick wood, Mahogany and Gmelina as tree crops. Three years after weeds begin pestering these tree crops when it crossed the idea of raising goats as control mechanism.

Out of necessity, my brother transferred the goats in my farm in 1999. Production at that time reached 90 head. He provided me all the stock and since then I maintained the operation with Alpine as the exotic breed in the herd of mostly graded native.

Expectedly, the problem with weeds at the reforestation project was biologically controlled. Only then did I realize the importance of these lowly animals and learned to like them. Inspired by the production, I immediately expanded and bought additional stock from the provinces of Quezon, Batangas to as far as General Santos City of its famed native goat, the Dadiangas strain.

The thing that interests me most is the prolific nature of goat most often producing two to three kids, kidding twice a year compared to large animals with long gestation cycle. In my experience, I defied conventional standard of 1.5 kidding per year. I shall discuss this later on my production practices.

Reaping Benefits with Worst Experience

I reaped the most benefit of the complementary projects but have also experienced the worse of raising goats. For one, I lost almost 400 head early on my operations from a newly purchased stock at an average cost of P4,000.00 / head. The culprit was mainly brought by internal parasitism.

The impact was heartbreaking that I almost lost my drive to continue goat production. But in spite of the grim experienced I hang on. Instead of losing my interest I immersed myself in studying application of biologics. It paid off but at a costly price.

Another problem encountered is something we're afraid of goats - feasting on green vegetations. The worse came when the herd learned to like the bark of Gmelina trees. This time the damage shifted to survival of trees in the reforested area. Before the effect reached its toll, Gmelina trees were wrapped with used fish net to prevent further damage brought by goat as pests.

The supply of recyclable fishnets also reached its toll that I have to source out used fishnets from elsewhere rather than buying costly brand new fishnets. To some extent, the bark feast spree was minimized. But I still need to device ways at the least cost to discourage goats from eating tree barks. I just hope goats will not learn to climb trees lest our copra will be in danger.

Inventory and Source of Breeder Base

The sweat and tears paid off and transformed the farm to unprecedented production record. Present inventory showed a thousand goat roams the 200 hectares reforestation area and under coconut trees. Upgraded goats with mixed bloodline constitute majority of the stocks.

Exotic breeds maintained at the farm constitute Anglo Nubian (70%), Boer (20%), and Saanen (10%). Although no Alpine purebred can be seen traces of its dominant physical features can be observed in upgraded natives such as the short bodied frame with erect ears.

This pure breeder base came from different farms, some I bought while others are acquired through participation with the National Genetic Resources Improvement Program of the Department of Agriculture from the network of Nucleus Farms implemented by the Bureau of Animal Industry.

We use color-coding of ear tags to facilitate identification of animals by pedigree and marketing purposes. Yellow color denotes the third classification with a bloodline at 35%. The second class is designated with green color with a bloodline of 50%. The 75% bloodline as first class is coded with blue colored ear tag.

EXPERIENCES IN PRODUCTION

Experience, I dare say, is the best teacher. The worse experiences I have had transformed my skill and knowledge to respond better to the needs of the herd as well as my farm. It is this fullness of experience aided with goat literatures that practical application evolved to greater awareness on the nature of goat. These learning experiences with goat are the things I would like to share with you. I don't intend to refute theoretical juxtapositions but merely complements those that have been espoused by goat scientists from my personal practices.

Housing and Other Structures

The housing system I adapted is not the typical recommended housing facilities for small ruminants. For one, I converted my cattle shed for the goats which to date have been serving the housing needs of the herd. This is to maximize also existing resources in the farm with the end view of establishing goat house at a lower investment cost.

Innovations

Innovation, however, was undertaken to suit the needs of goats such as the addition of detachable slatted floorings made of bamboo materials with a height of 6 inches to give space for accumulation of wastes. Adaptability is comparable with the recommended elevated goat houses as the herd responded at par in terms of production

Housing Facilities

Three major housing facilities are maintained in the farm. One is for does and female weanlings with nursery and kidding pens. Separate housing unit for bucks and other male goats were also adapted to safeguard female weanlings and does from indiscriminate breeding services. The same reason the purebred breeder does is provided with separate housing structures.

Waste Management

Disposal of waste products are done periodically. Waste disposal during rainy season is frequently done to avoid bacterial growth. Contamination during the wet season is quick and goats are prone to internal parasitic attack.

Wastes: Source of Disease Contagion

The lost of approximately 400 goats occurred during the rainy season. We traced the source of contagion through feces and urine. The wet environment facilitated the spread of parasites. The effect to animals is so potent that deaths occurred simultaneously in a very swift fashion.

Wastes Disposal

Since then, we adapted a more rigid disposal of wastes especially during the rainy days. The number one rule, don't let wastes accumulate where animals frequently visits especially at the housing units. We feel optimistic that the nightmare we had with parasites will be the first and last occurrence.

Wastes as By-Products

So far we can say that waste management procedures are well implemented. Waste products are recycled into organic fertilizers for crops not only at the farm but also benefited community vegetable growers. To some extent, vegetable farmers in the community contributed in waste disposal by gathering these by products for garden use.

Animal Health

Health problems encountered were the common goat diseases such as colds, diarrhea, and bloat. Except for internal parasites, other diseases did not contribute to significant economic lose as deaths was occasional. The most sensitive breed and are being watched is the Boer. Our observations suggest that Boer should be taken cared of especially during the age period from birth to 4 months. This period is the most critical as they are most prone and susceptible to internal parasites. The rest of the herd exhibits more tolerance.

Eradication Using Alternate De-wormers

The ordeal with internal parasites was so devastating in our operations. To combat this menace, the farm institutionalize de-worming program. Initial effect was felt after 6 months and another year was needed for the complete eradication. This was after full cycle implementation of the program.

As preventive measure, on top of waste management, the farm adopted a regular application of de-wormers. Our experience in de-wormer application taught us to use four types of de-wormers alternately. Although there are various dewormers in the market, response of the animals to these combinations proved helpful in our quest for complete eradication of parasites. The reason behind the use of alternate application is to prevent tolerance of parasite from single de-wormer.

During dry months administration of de-wormers are provided once every two months. In contrast to the frequency of administration on rainy days which is ones every 15 days. I would not rather mention the brand names of these de-wormers to avoid undue advertisement but I can tell you later during the open forum.

Maintenance of a Farm Veterinarian

Our farm veterinarian was instrumental in instituting de-wormer combination. Indeed, there is no substitute for what a veterinarian can do in combating animal diseases. The role of veterinarian is critical in the maintenance of a good animal health especially for a farm with hundreds of inventory. Since my start of operation and to date, our veterinarian is responsible for the maintenance of goat health in the farm.

Other Discovery

One of the discoveries we have with the pure breeds is the development of resistance on loose vowel movement that we accounted from feeding seaweeds. We have no scientific basis on this but we are letting these animals graze at the seashore as often as it allows - every low tide.

DA's Technical Assistance

Consultations with DA's experts particularly from the BAI in goat production boosted our farm operations. As early as my initial operation implementers of the NGRIP and staff from the BAI's personnel from the Tiaong Farm visited and provided technical assistance especially when the animals were besieged with internal parasites.

It was during one of their visit when the recommendation to institutionalize deworming program was raised to which the farm favorably adapted. Generally, technical staffs from the DA were part in the transformation of the farm to what it is today.

Feeds and Feeding

Supplemental feed is provided to the animals on top of the forage grasses and legumes abound in the farm. Fodder tree leaves are also regularly given particularly Gmelina leaves which are the all time favorite including the bark.

We formulate our own feed mixture. The abundance of copra in the area made us sustainable in our feed mix resources. Copra cake and pollard are the major ingredients in the feed formulation at a ratio of 1:2. This feed mixture is provided to the herd along with water given ad libitum. Salt granules and not mineral blocks are also made available at all times.

Forage and Pasture

We tried to develop forage and pasture area but due to premature grazing of the herd we were not able to establish one. However, this did not prevent us in providing adequate forage materials. The vast area has more than enough for the feed requirements of the animals

Open grazing is practiced though bucks have their own separate grazing area. This is done from 7 AM to 11 AM herding themselves to the goat houses. The same in the afternoon where the animals roams from 2 PM to 5 PM then goes back to the shed for water, salt, feed supplements, and fodder leaves.

This practice became habit and has evolved as second nature to the animals. This has minimized the idle time guarding the animals. Farm workers now have more time for other farm works such as feed formulation and gathering of fodder leaves.

Although there are reports on animal deaths due to snakebites and injuries from dog attack, the rate is not alarming. Lost of animals are neither experienced.

Breeding Practices

We accounted the unprecedented production record primarily to production efficiency attained by the farm. For all the theoretical underpinnings of 1.5 kidding index, we were able to register an index of two in a year. Behind this performance is the practice of introducing buck to the doe fifteen days after kidding which is the onset of the first post-partum heat.

Although we do not have scientific evidence we also trace this phenomenon to our feeding practices. Empirical evidence suggests feeding regimen of concentrates (copra cake and pollard) and open grazing complements invigorates prolific nature of goats. It is best to understand the behavior and characteristics of the animal in providing good management to maximize returns on the investment.

Kidding size is another contributing factor. Most often does produced twins or triplets and seldom with single births. Mortality on the other hand for pre and post weaning is also a rare occurrence. These are the apparent contributing factor for improved performance efficiency.

Marketing

The scale of operation is obviously commercial type. Our market animal responds both the need for slaughter animals and breeder requirements of prospective investors. Slaughter animals are bought regardless of breed due to standard price at P50.00/kilo while culls are sold at P4,000.00/head. Bulk of the market goes to the Lucena City and the rest to the adjacent municipalities.

Upgrades for breeding on the other hand are sold at P8,000.00 for ready to breed with a bloodline of 75% either Anglo Nubian or Boer. Price for purebred island-born ranges from P13,000.00 to P20,000.00 depending on the age of animals. In terms of customers' preference Boer is the most commonly sought breeder compared to Anglo Nubian. The reason behind is the relative bulkiness of Boer ideal for slaughter purposes.

Buyers of animals came mostly from the province. We have also supplied buyers' requirement from the Bicol region to as far as Tarlac in the north.

Threats: FMD and Accessibility

There are inquiries from the Visayas and Mindanao areas but the Luzon quarantine imposed due to FMD limits the prospect of market expansion to the south. This is the biggest marketing threat for our products.

Accessibility wise, our farm is at a disadvantage position compared with location of other farms. This is exacerbated further with rough roads leading to the farm. We have remedied this inherent problem by delivering sold animals to buyers provided the volume is right. We are hopeful the on-going road cementing will be finished the earliest possible time. Thus, we look at our disadvantage as a short-term problem.

Strength

Imminent, however, is our competitive advantage as we are near the seashore. This offers great opportunities for product shipment to the southern part of the country and perhaps even the export market.

Competition

I met various producers myself and so far competition in the industry is rather non-existent. In fact, disparity in pricing system is evident but preference of supplier is not yet felt. This is one reality in the industry that stakeholder especially prospective investors lack awareness - reflective of a developing industry in contrast to swine and poultry industry status and contribution to the economy.

Profitability

At the moment to say the least, I have not yet recouped my investment due to mortality brought by internal parasites. But at the rate of production, I can safely say that I am fast recovering from my losses. Indeed, the industry is ready to take off with its vast potentials just waiting to be tapped.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES AND FUTURE PLANS

We see a bright prospect of the industry but the ground works have to be paved both at the farm level and the support from the national government in terms of policies favorable to the industry.

Breeder Selection

The immediate concern of the farm is to produce 1,000 head breeder doe. Right now we are in the process of selection and we are making sure that our breeders passed our criteria for best possible results. The progenies of bucks loaned through NGRIP of the DA are among the selected breeders.

Pasture and Goat House Development

Supportive to this goal is the establishment of forage pasture to sustain and for reliable source of feed sources. This time we will make sure that the area will be guarded to avoid undue grazing of the animals. A goat house based on standard specifications has been constructed for the expansion. Select breeders especially the exotic breeds shall be transferred upon completion of the building provisions.

Show Window

We plan also to establish a show window for our animals in Laguna area. This served as advertisement and marketing strategy. Institutional marketing shall also be vigorously pushed particularly restaurants and eateries specializing in chevon dishes.

GOVERNMENT AND INSTITUTIONAL LINKAGE

It is expected that the government address this concern in cooperation with the producers' association by providing necessary assistance to adopt a policy to promote the goat industry. There is also a need for the private sector to identify areas of advocacy for the development of the industry.

FMD Free Philippines

The latter plan however needs the national government assistance to facilitate declaration of FMD free Philippines. This will facilitate inter-island movement of live animals in the country that is a boost to the livestock industry. This shall also open the window for market abroad to countries where chevon is an accepted table meat.

In the mean time, pending declaration of the Philippines as FMD free, disease control should be a continuing priority of the national government particularly by the DA in partnership with the Provincial down to the City and Municipal Veterinarian.

NGRIP Implementation

Along this line is the expected continuity of the DA's implementation of NGRIP particularly the buck loan program to provide farmers quality stocks. I appreciate the program being a recipient myself. In fact progenies of the loaned animals have been among my elite group of breeders. Much that I enjoyed the benefit, I am certain others would wish to avail due to high cost of quality breeder stocks.

Organizational Strengthening

The private sector or producers themselves should be organized and strengthened for the industry to have legal identity. This would make stakeholders work towards a concerted effort in promoting the industry. One major activity would be the promotion of chevon as regular meat to increase share in the meat consumption.

Information Campaign

The need for information campaign - to drum beat goat meat consumption, is a primary concern of the industry to establish its niche in the livestock sector and contribute to the economy. This should include formulation and development of campaign materials focused on nutritional facts of chevon intended to educate the public.

Acceptance of chevon by consumers as common table meat is the key to unlocking regular market. This will also help influence the change of perception that goat meat is only consumed during special occasions and other festivities. Only through intensive information campaign and consumers education can a shift to preference and acceptance of goat meat be made.

PROSPECTS OF THE INDUSTRY

Our plan of expansion to 1,000 doe level is based from our increasing sales both for slaughter and breeder animals. This is also in anticipation with our plan of establishing a show window for our products. The increasing trend in our sales indicates a growing demand although there's left more to be desired.

Furthermore, buyers who became regular customers confirmed their trust for the reliable source of stocks we have. We would like to maintain this farm image as a reliable source of goats for slaughter and breeder animals.

While this observation is focused to market outlets within Luzon due to FMD constraints, the potential market expansion in the greater Visayas and Mindanao areas are left untapped. A lot of inquiries had been received in these areas but due to restricted movement of Luzon animals to the Visayas and Minandao regions market expansion remains just as elusive.

The declaration of the country as an FMD free enhances the domestic market expansion in the Visayas and Mindanao areas. This shall also open the opportunity for export market to countries where chevon is well accepted.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

After all these has been said and done, I do hope that my sharing of my experiences will contribute to your enthusiasm in your own goat enterprise. I hope this will also serve as an eye opener. In spite of the technological advances, the prospect of mining hidden practical learning experiences is vast and discoveries are worth more than the combined scientific advances.

It is not my purpose to discourage you in your pursuit for scientific technical application but merely interested to let you appreciate and understand the nature of our animals. I was gifted with the virtue of patience where the enthusiasm for the goats emanates. It was patience that drove me to appreciate them despite the heartbreaking losses. If not for this virtue, perhaps, I'm out of the business and, have not learned and discovered what others would have dared to attempt.

I bid you good luck and wish nobody threads the pitfall I came into - losing 400 goats - to learn but provide you a map to appreciate the art and science of goat production. Remember, there is nothing worth harnessing than letting your animal live the natural way for productivity.

Documented and prepared by [[http://ldc.da.gov.ph/|Livestock Development Council]] staff: Ipe Reolalas,Lulu Tanchanco
for the 2nd Small Ruminant Congress, Muñoz City, 25-26 March 2004.