Changing Characteristics of Goat Farming Practices in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Purpose: In rural areas, most goat farmers keep various breeds under different farming systems, subject to change based on seasons, grazing resource availability, and government breeding policies. This study aimed to investigate the evolving characteristics of goat farming practices in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, which hosts a large goat population. Research Method: A total of 266 goat farmers were randomly selected from all veterinary divisions in the Eastern Province with the assistance of local veterinary offices. Data were collected from each farmer using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews, supplemented by farm visits and observations. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Review Committee (ERC/FT/2022/09). The collected data were tabulated and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. The data was tabulated and analyzed using MS Excel. The results were then compared with existing literature to identify and explore recent changes in farming practices. Findings and Values: Most of the goat farmers were male (92%), had primary or secondary education (75%), and were self-employed (75.8%) rearing goats at a subsistence level. The breed composition changed with the introduction of Jamnapari (45%) and Saanen (6.9%) breeds. Whereas, rearing goats for meat production (98.1%) remained unchanged. A majority of farmers (54%) had adopted a semi-intensive system, representing a shift from the previously dominant extensive system. Farmers adapt their feeding methods based on grazing resource availability, often adopting short-term, seasonally-dependent intensification strategies. These findings indicate that goat farming continues to coexist with the prevailing ecosystem as a sustainable production entity, albeit with evolving characteristics. These evolving characteristics, namely breed composition and farming systems, driven by policy and resource availability are critical for farmers and relevant authorities to inform field-level decision-making.