Abstract

A cross sectional study was done to assess the herd composition and characteristics of dairy production in Bishoftu Town using a well structured questionnaire. The farms were categorized the production levels into small (<10 animals), medium (10 to 50 animals) and large (>50 animals) farms based on the number of animals. Significant variation (P=0.000) in the age and purpose related herd composition ration of among categories is shown. However, although large farms have relatively more number of exotic cattle than small holders, the herd composition from blood level point of view was found to be insignificant (P=0.001). Characteristics like use, consumers and labor source for dairy farms of different level significantly differ (P<0.05) that small and medium scale dairy farms chiefly uses their family labor while large farms hire at seasonal employee. Furthermore, owners of all levels of production responded that dairy farms have negative public health impact because of the bad odor and existence of some zoonotic diseases. Among the production level there was significant difference with respect to feed source, housing and floor type, udder health management and insemination means (P<0.05). It is concluded that dairying is an important sector in urban agriculture and different characteristics long intensity of the production. Furthermore, the existing dairy infrastructure should be strengthened. Also, establishment of new ones should be encouraged by government and non-government institution with better technical assistance and recommended capacity building of farm owners.

Key words: Dairy, level of production, urban agriculture.