Library

Enterprise Selection: Livestock

Summary

Livestock systems include pork, lamb, goat, beef, dairy, broiler, and egg production. Value-added products include milk, cheese, and many processed meat products. Livestock can be raised in a multispecies system to enhance production and marketing opportunities. Livestock also may be part of an integrated crop and livestock farm and a good option for land that isn’t suited to growing crops. Livestock need care and attention year-round. Animals require shelter, adequate nutrition and water, safe fencing, exercise, and health care. Proper pasture management is an essential aspect of sustainable livestock production for many small farms. State and local regulations and other legal parameters can affect what and how livestock can be raised on a particular site. Investigate these issues before initiating a livestock enterprise.