Breeding Bos Javanicus d’Alton cattle in eastern Indonesia: Monitoring village cattle

Abstract

A monitoring system of Bali cattle performance was established on Lombok (Kelebuh and Tandek: primarily cut-and-carry feeding) and Sumbawa (Boak and Simu: primarily grazing)islands. On each island, one village adopted new management and the second village retained prevailing management. The primary components of new management were: controlled seasonal natural mating using a selected bull, calf weaning at 5-6 months of age and managing weaner diets. Data collected included: diary, pedigree, growth, mating management, mating outcome, ownership, health management, diet, commodity use and weather. All data was linked to a unique animal number and was replicated in village and office books. Computer spreadsheets were created in the same format. A technical officer on each island supported all aspects of the village beef business at both villages, and the officers were in turn supported by a scientist. The monitoring system was very effective in providing a full data set for village cattle production. The success of the system was highly
dependent on the dedication and skills of the technical officers.