Sistemas de produção da ovinocaprinocultura no município de Vargem Grande, Maranhão

Abstract

Goats and sheep represent one of the main sources of proteins of high nutritional value for human consumption, being an activity with socioeconomic relevance in the country. The production and productivity of these species, however, are often limited due to sanitary, nutritional and management problems, making it necessary to know sanitary, nutritional and reproductive management measures. The present work aims to characterize the rural module, the breeding system, the type of animal created and the general management practices adopted by families of rural farmers in the municipality of Vargem Grande, Maranhão. The study was developed during the period of experience promoted by the Rural Extension Laboratory (LABEX) of the State University of Maranhão, from July 11 to 23, 2016 and conducted 17 rural communities in the municipality with the application of a semi-structured questionnaire and visits to small rural properties where goat and sheep breeding were present. The rural modules occupied an area equal to eight ha, exploring between 12 and 50 extensively raised animals on native pastures. There were evidences deficiencies in the general management of the creation, mainly in the aspects reproduction, nutrition and sanity. The breeding is for family consumption and sale of live animals for income. The raising of goats and sheep activity is essentially family, with serious management problems that translate into low productivity. The situation becomes more aggravated by the absence of policies and technical assistance directed to this segment.