Things To Consider Before Starting A Dairy Farm
A dairy farm business can be very promising. There is high demand for milk all the time, and you can earn a lot of revenue from the business. Here are some things you need to consider before starting a dairy farm.
Write a business plan
You should first write down a detailed business plan. The plan should include a SWOT analysis of the resources and capital available. You should have a plan for cash flow, hiring employees, and marketing your business.
Talk to the experts
You should learn how to feed and milk cows from the experts. They can give you tips on how to get more milk production. The local dairy farms often arrange field days and open houses. You should attend these programs.
You will learn how to take care of the cows’ health from the nutritionists and veterinarians. At these open house events, you will also be meeting bankers and agronomists who will help develop the dairy farm.
Create a feeding program
You can graze your cattle or feed a TMR (total mixed ration). You need to give your cattle the proper nutrients so that they can grow and produce milk. You should work closely with an experienced nutritionist to create a feeding program for your lactating cow.
Develop a waste management plan
On a dairy farm, lots of waste will be left behind on the field. You will need to cut crops to feed the cattle. There will be manure, and you will need to get rid of them.
Build equity
You need huge capital investment to set up a dairy farm. Your investment will include land, equipment, building, cows, and farmers. You may have to take a loan from the back to start your dairy farm.
You should talk to your friends or people you know who are already running a dairy farm. You should stick to the business plan and try to progress accordingly.