Livestock Research in k m mm m ^ I ^H'iODii Watershed Managementi^a.Oon Ccajiiil South WoUo liurarv

forage b fceb artb conservation

Amhara Region Agricultural Bureau and EARO // | ■ B »

July 2000

^Animals grazing on begrabcb taut) Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

I / l l 1^

Acknowledgements

The team gratefully acknowledges the Amhara Region for providing the team a privilege to participate In on-farm livestock production at watershed sites, such approach will assist to develop a shared vision that can mobilise national research system around a common set of shared perspective and objectives, as well as a vision of the future.

Dr Belay Semane Is highly acknowledged for organizing and managing the travelling mission. The hospitality and generosity of the team members of the project is highly appreciated. The process has promoted symbiotic relationships with extension agents, researchers and farmers. The enthusiastic team members and determinations of the farmers to change their environment and farm productivity have inspired us to understand that the capacity to generate and effectively use knowledge in development efforts relates to the development of an Innovative capacity that requires not only efficient extension system but also the farmers' Involvement, we are grateful to the earo management for the support and facilitating the trip. we hope all joint planned activities will be translated Into meaningful results. Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

FOREWARD South wollo is endowed with diverse livestock population, Its farming system is dependent on livestock for food, security and survival. Oxen are the main source of traction, in major barley growing weredas equines are important for ploughing other than serving as pack animals, in some weredas like Debre Sina weredas farmers are also using cows for the same purpose.

However, the productivity of livestock is challenged by technical and non­ technical constraints. With Increasing population and accompanied urbanization, livestock has to provide opportunities for generating income for smallholders, while meeting the nutritional needs. Research and development has to ensure these demands that are socially, economically and environmentally ways.

Livestock production in south wollo region is complex as compared with East Gojjam. Even though the main technical constraints affecting productivity of the two watershed areas can be regarded as the same, the degree and order of priorities are different. The challenge is the same as portrayed by Tribe (1994): The challenge we all face today Is learning how to produce higher yields of crops and livestock while still conserving essential natural resources, like soil, water, forests, and biodiversity which will be needed for the survival of future generations.

The travelling seminar was undertaken by research teams with the aim of setting livestock research priorities (on-farm and on-station) to enhance their contribution to environmentally sustainable production system at watershed sites of South Wollo. The assessment was based on consultation with researchers, extensionists, development agents and farmers. The different discussion forum provided valuable information in designing the research areas. The report identifies researchable issues, trainings and recommendations that need the attention of the region.

ii TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page N um

Acknowledgements...... i

Foreword...... ii

1.0. Introductions...... l 2.0. Objcctivcs and Expected O u tp u t...... 2 2.1. Objectives and Expcctcd output...... 2 2.2 Approach and Processes...... 2 3.0. Description of South W ollo...... 3 3.1. Climate and Elevation...... 3 3.2. Rainfall...... 3 3.3. Topography and Soil...... 3 3.4. Human Population...... 4 3.5. Animal Resource...... 4 3.6. Land u se...... 5 3.7. Feed Resource...... 5 3.8. Crop Production System...... 6 3.9. Livestock Production System...... 6 4.0. Research Centers and Development Efforts...... 7 4.1. Research Centers...... 7 4.1.1. Kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication Center...... 7 4.1.2. Sirinka Agricultural Research Center...... 8 4.1.3. Sheno Agricultural Research Center...... 8 4.2. Activities over the Last 5 years...... 8 4.2.1. Animal and Fishery Development...... 8 4.2.2. SIDA Supported Watershed Sites...... 9 5.0. Drought and its Effects...... 10 5.1. Drought...... 10 5.2. Effects of 1999 Drought...... 12 5.3. Measures Taken...... 13 6.0. Analysis and Designing Honeybee Production...... 14 6.1. Constraint analysis...... 14 6.2. Future Directions...... 15 6.2.1. Watershed Management Sites...... 15 6.2.2. Emphasis on Supporting Sites...... 16 6.2.3. Fulfilling other Requirements...... 17 7.0. Analysis and Designing Poultry Production Program ...... 19 7.1. Constraint analysis...... 19 7.1.1. Watershed Management Sites...... 19 7.1.2. K.uniuoiciia Poultry Breeding and Multiplication Lenter...... 20 7.2. Future Direction...... 20 7.2.1. Watershed Management Sites...... 20 7.2.2. Kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication Center...... 8.0. Analysis and Designing Small Ruminant Production ...... 8.1. Constraint analysis...... 8.2. Future Direction...... 8.2.1. General...... 8.2.2. Guguftu Sheep Breeding Center...... 8.2.3. Fleece Production and Cottage Industry...... 9.0. Analysis and Designing Cattle Production (beef, dairy)...... 9.1. Constraint analysis...... 9.2. Future Direction...... 9.2.1. Watershed Management Sites...... 9.2.2. On-Stations...... 10.0. Analysis and Designing Feed Resource Management Production 10.1. Constraint analysis...... 10.2. Future Direction...... 10.2.1. Livestock Excclusion Area Development...... 10.2.2. Forage Nursiers...... 10.2.3. Watershed Management Sites...... 11.0. Priority Areas...... 12.0. On-farm Research Proposals ...... 12.1. Poultry Production...... 12.2. Small Ruminant Production...... 12.3. Honeybee Production...... 12.4. Cattle Production...... 13.0. On-station Research Proposals...... 13.1. Poultry Production...... 13.2. Cattle Production...... 14.0. Identifications of Short-term Trainings Need ...... 14.1. Poultry Production...... 14.2. Small Ruminant Production...... 14.3. Honeybee Production...... 15.0. Monitoring and Evaluation...... 16.0. General Recommendations...... 16.1. Issues of Drought Prone Areas...... 16.2. Sustainable Forage Seed Production...... 16.3. Agricultural Farm Implements...... 16.4. Coordination and Integration...... Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

Report on Travelling Seminar (June 30 to July 5, 2000) on Livestock Development in water shed management of South Wollo

1.0. INTRODUCTION

This is the second report on Livestock Research and Development In watershed management. The first report addressed the East GoJJam and the current report dwells on South wollo sites. The study was Initiated In response to the request of the Amhara Agricultural Bureau to EARO management for assisting in designing livestock production research In watershed management of these two areas. The Animal Science Research Directorate of EARO has recognized the value of such integrated effort of collaboration, discussed with the Animal Science Core team and arranged the two trips with the corresponding reports. Thus, a team of researcher collaborated to produce this report. The team members were: Zlnash sileshl (Dr) Team coordinator Alemu GA/Vpld (Dr) Dairy Research Program Alemu Yami (Dr) Poultry Research Program Aschalew Tsegahun small Ruminant Research program Dereje weltdji Apiculture Research Solomon Menglstu Feed Resource and Nutrition Research program Belaye Semane (Dr) SIDA supported on-farm research coordinator Samuel Menebre Member of Project, Sirinka Research Centre

SIDA supported on-farm research in south wollo started in September 1997 with the objective of improving productivity by addressing the challenges posed by land degradation, variable environments. The on-farm research areas are at eight weredas manely Legambo, Debre Sina, Sayint, Wogedi, Kelala. Dessie zuria, wereilu and Jamma. Livestock production In South Wollo region is complex as compared with East Gojjam. Even though the main technical constraints affecting productivity of the two watershed areas can be regarded as the same, the degree and order of priorities are different.

The process of developing this report was based on visiting the trial sites; water shed areas, discussion with farmers, extension and development agents and collations of necessary documents. The report is thus formulated on to provide highlights, constraints and future directions > Feed resource > Dairy and beef production > Poultry production > Sheep and goat production and > Honeybee production. The future direction includes designing on-farm and on-sraticn research fas oack stopping). The firsi pdi i ur me report; deais a brief description ot- South Wollo, future directions or interventions and the last session deals on general issues that need the attention of the region to improve the livestock sector

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2.0. Objectives and Expected Output of Travelling Seminar

2.1. Objectives and Expected Output

The main objectives of these initiatives are Is to develop a shared vision and a consensus for action In research and development in SIDA supported watershed management sites in order to Improve the productivity of the whole farm while protecting the environment. This challenge needs to bring together researchers, extension and development agents and farmers to identify and design of application of generated research technologies, identification of research and development agendas that need to be studied and recommendation domains that support the implementation of the programs. 2.2. The Process and Approach

The team was briefed by Department of Agriculture of South wollo Administrative zone, who are also Involved In the on-farm research and brief discussion was held on their report. Moreover, the group had extended the discussion while visiting the different sites. The report has incorporated the high light report of the area by the Region, Insightful comments forwarded through out the trip. Research centres in the region namely Sheno Research Centre, Kombolcha Poultry Multiplication Centre and Sirinka Research centres were visited by the team. The rationale of visiting these centres was to define their potential roles in supporting the on-farm research.

The on-farm research at watershed area attempts to address the different facets of the problem through the development and implementation of crop and livestock productivity and natural resource conservation. Livestock based agriculture is highly dependent upon the natural ecosystems, improvement or optimum utilization of natural resources in the watershed area is: improvement of the livestock productivity based on available resources and knowledge Employment generation and development of other economic resources in the village improvement of ecological degradation by easy and affordable solutions that build on indigenous knowledge *:• Emphasis on improving the economic and social condition of the resource poor).

The approach emphasises on ecological principles for the design and management of sustainable and resource-conserving agricultural systems. It relies on indigenous farming knowledge; incorporate biological principles and resources into farming systems, and nrart-irai manngprrient options to restore agricultural lands at the same time improving livestock productivity at affordable way for smallholders.

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3.0. Descriptions of South Wollo

South wollo lies between latitudes from 10°10‘ N to 38° 28'E longitudes and has a total landmass of 17730.823 km*. The altitude varies from 1000 m (Chefameda) to 4247 m (Amba Ferit) above sea level. The zone has 15 weredas of having 428 peasant associations. The zone endowed with mosaic agro-ecological zones namely kola, dega, wane dega and worlch. Most of the areas consist of rugged mountain ranges. Ecological degradation Is one the main challenges of the zone. Description of the zone Is indicated In the following sections.

3.1. Climate and Elevation

The distribution of the zone into the four agrecologles is Kolia 25.33% wenaDega 40.03% Dega 33.15% wourch 1.49% The annual range of temperature Is 10°C to 25°C and drops with the increase in latitude. Range in average dally temperature Is wide and differences between areas are also pronounced. Frost is very common in high altitudes specifically at altitudes above 2500 m asi.

3.2. Rainfall

Annual rainfall varies considerably from 900 to 1000 m and much of this rainfall falls in Belg (February to May) and Meher (June-September). However, rainfall is frequently unreliable and there has been recurrent fail of Belg rains. The highland area of south wollo Is found on the leeward side of the main monsoon circulation and thus has low rainfall than the western side of the highlands of Ethiopia situated in the same latitude. The zone in general can be characterised as highly drought prone area.

3.3. Topography and Soils

Based on the classification of Land Use Team Department, about 13% of the cultivated land and 44% of the total area of the zone is beyond 30° slope. Soil erosion is the major loss of fertile topsoil and is estimated that the loss exceeds 100 t/h annually in most places.

The soil type ranges between locations. The major soil types of western part of the zone is vertisol followed by luvic and nitosol. The southern and eastern parts of the zone have cambisol, vertisol and dark brown silt clay soils, water logging as a result of poor surface drainage, shallow soil depth snd Infertility '■ssulted in nnr.r ‘.vate:' hc-iJIrsg capacity is cne majoi constraints tor crop production in weredas like Jamma.

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3.4 Human population

The 1992 E.C human population estimate shows that there are 248,318 family members and 89.4% of this lives rural areas. The population Is growing at an annual rate of 2.85 per cent. About 44.9% and 33.3% of the population live In mid altitude and highlands, respectively. The population density by agroecologlcal zones Is shown In table 1.

Table 1. population density distribution pattern by Agroecologlcal zone

Agroecologlcal zone Percentage Denslty/km2 Kolia 21.8 120 wena Dega 44.9 157 Dega and Werich 33.3 135 3.5. Animal Resource

The total animal population is estimated about 1,390,5635 TLU. The breakdown to the different species is given In table 2.

Table 2. Animal Population based on 1992 estimates

Species Number TLU* cattle 1,464,863 1,025,404 Sheep 1,218,670 121,867 Goats 684,083 68,408 Equines 256,411 160,257 Camels 1,896 1,896 Poultry 1,273,250 127,333 *1 TLU is equivalent to 0.7 cattle, or 10 sheep or 10 goats or 100 hens or 1 camel or 0.625 equines

The average livestock population per km2 is 216.8. The distribution and density of animal population varies across agroecologlcal zones (table 3) and weredas. in fact the distribution follows the pattern of human population.

Table 3. Animal Population density distribution pattern by Agroecological zone

Agroecologlcal zone Percentage Density/km1 Kolia 22.59 176 Wena Dega 39.67 201 Dega and Werich 37.74 294

The average domestic animal per 100 inhabitants comprises of 64.4 cattle, 56.5 cnpsp 3^.3 goat, 13.3 equir.c: sr.d 51.8 poultry. Wegadi, Makdeila, Kaliu and Sayint have high number of cattle as compared with other weredas. Ambassel and Tehulderie have the least number of cattle per 100 inhabitants. With Travelling Seminar Report, July 2 0 0 0 £iuash SUcsr.i (L)r.i O U e C W of LivcsvocK Re* * " * 1 respect to sheep, Lagambo, Saylnt and Medella nave high number, saylnt wereda also has the highest number of goats about 93 goats per 100 Inhabitants. Highest equine number Is found In Legambo and Kutaber weredas.

The zone has also a potential of fishery development In Its four lakes. Descriptions of these lakes and their potential are Indicated below (table 4.). The major type of fish found In these lakes are catfish, telapia and common carp.

Table 4. Description of lakes In the zone

Lake Location Area Depth Potential (Km2) (mt) Tehuledere 21 65.0 300 Mayber Dessle zurla 1 11 25 Golbo Ambasel 0.6 10 10 3.6. Land Use

Due the increasingly human population, the increasing demand for agricultural land is being largely met by the expansion of agricultural Into marginal and steep slope areas. The land use system of the zone by agro ecology is shown in table 5.

Table 5. Land use pattern of south Wollo

Category Agro-ecology Total areas in Kolia W/Dega Dega Werich ha % Farm land 122447 247139 251163 5602 626357 35.32 Grazing 24368 46200 77856 10779 162203 9.14 land Forest & 190734 261975 141119 3632 597460 33.69 shrub land waste land 89562 98285 74962 5079 267888 15.10 water 1542 5386 1096 69 8093 0.45 body Developed 17645 50895 41695.3 852 11087.30 6.3 area Total area 449298 709880 587891.3 26013 1773082.3 % 25.33 40.03 33.15 1.49 3.7. Peed Resources

The major feed resources are natural pasture from grazing land and crop residues, estimated dry matter production from grazing areas and hilly areas

5 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000 are 636,000 and 1,081.200 t per year. This Is based on the assumption yield of 2 t/ha from grazing land and 1 t/ha from hilly areas. With the assumption of 1:2 grain straw ratios, the total crop residue Is estimated about 0.89 t/ha per year. 3.8. Crop Production

The main cereals produced in the area are teff, sorghum, barley and maize. The type of crops grown differs between weredas and the cropping system is dictated by rainfall pattern. Eastern Weredas mostly grow sorghum (20 to 34 % cropland) and most western weredas grow teff as meher crop (25 to 35% crop land). Barley is the major crop of tegambo, Dessle Zurla, Wereillu and Sayint covering up to 50% of the cultivable land. Wereillu and Jamma are the major wheat producing weredas.

3.9. Livestock Production

Livestock production in the region Is subsistence oriented. Its livestock production is well integrated with crop production. The farming system is dependent on livestock for food, security and survival. Oxen are the main source of traction, in major barley growing weredas equines are important for ploughing other than serving as pack animals, in Debre Sina Weredas farmers are also using cows for the same purpose. Animal manure Is very important to improve soil fertility. However, In most farming system, part of the manure is used for fuel Crop residues Is the main feed resources, introduction of improved forage into the farming system is non-existent.

Major environmental challenges in the zone include severe deforestation, too intense cultivation even in very steep sloppy areas, reduction in grazing areas low and unreliable rainfall. Poor soil fertility, soil erosion, water logging are main constraints facing crop productions. Soil fertility problem is inherent by soil type, soil depth and soil fertility management system. The livestock sector was impeded by technical constraints viz. poor nutrition and disease challenges. Feed shortage both in quality and quantity ranks first, crazing lands are limited and even certain areas, which can be of a potential for grazing, cannot be utilized due to water logging problem. Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

4.0. Research Centres and Development efforts 4.1. Research Centres

4.1.1. Kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication Centre

The centre was established in 1985. The objectives of the centre are Rearing and distribution of 3 month old Improved pullets/or cockerels to the farmers * Distribution of day-old chicks to Interested governmental and non­ governmental organization ❖ Distribution of fertile eggs to farmers * Breed Improvement * Giving in-service training ❖ Formulation of least cost poultry rations based on local feed resources ❖ Private support service through professional advice and conduct poultry research

The centre has a capacity of producing 72,000 pullets/cockerels, 175,000 - 345,000 day old chicks and 1200 tones of formulated animal feed. During the last two decades, the centre has distributed the following number of chicken as shown in table 6.

Table 6. Pullets and Cockerels Distribution by kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication Centre from 1978 to 1992 E.C.______Year Pullets & Cockerels Day-old-chicks 1978 8324 0 1979 16505 5957 1980 4081 7754 1981 24907 8859 1982 21876 5253 1983 1812 0 1984 2393 1795 1985 1812 19821 1986 0 400 1987 3694 2287 1988 21199 8881 1989 20069 17255 1990 32700 15156 1991 33447 6278 1992 37718 7415

Even though the contribution of the centre in providing chicken has been increasing, it is still under its capacity. Though the centre has great potential in providing formulated feeds, a critical element in poultry development, the cii'.rrG did not start Inis activity due to many redSuns. however, mere is a plan at least to initiate production in the next fiscal year.

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4.1.2. Sirinka Agricultural Research centre

The centre was established in 1987. However due to several reasons, the centre started Its research activities In 1994. The centre is engaged In crops, horticulture, soil and water management, agricultural economics and extension, w ith respect to livestock, the centre is only engaged In feed resource management. Since the establishment, the centre has considerable achievements in various research disciplines.

SIDA supported on-farm research started before two years ago. in the first year, the activities were focused on crop and natural resource components. Activities on livestock started In the second year at five weredas. So far the Feeds and Nutrition Division of the centre supervised and provided technical backstopping on-farm research. However, the centre did not participate as expected due to technical and administrative problems. These problems have to be streamlined. Some points that may assist in strengthening the integration and collaboration among team members are indicated at the last section of this report. It should be emphasised that strong effort and involvements on feed resource managements are required in the future.

4.1.3. Sheno Agricultural Research Centre in the mid-1980s, highland sheep research centre was established at Sheno with IDA support. The MOA Includes research observations in Its sheep development program. The centre is organized on discipline basis and has been addressing constraints that limit sheep production. Currently, the centre is coordinating national small ruminant research program.

Engagement of the centre in livestock research in watershed sites is very limited. There is no clear definition of the role of the centre and also lacks designating of team members with terms of references. The centre has to play a great role in the activities designed for watershed sites. 4.2. Activities Achieved Over the Last Five Years 4.2.1. Animal and Fishery Development Breeding: establishment of 2 bull stations and 5 Al centres Production of 896 calves through Al and 1302 through bull services Provision of 13 heifers, 152 rams and distribution of 25256 cockerels and pullets Beef production fattening of 2086 cattle and 6787 sheep and goats

Honeybee production 137 improved (Zander) and 24 local hives were distributed Feed Resource: E^afclioftment of l forage seed multiplication centres on the area of 11.5 ha Production of 109 qt of forage seed production

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Forage development on 1331.32 ha using different strategies Fishery Provision of various fishing materials Fish harvesting and marketing, 12759 qt Study of water body of two lakes and fish markets at two zones 4.2.2. Activities Undertaken at Watershed Management

Poultry and beekeeping are the main activities of the livestock component. Poultry research comprised of two types of housing system and ? commercial feed supply. It was reported that the use of six hen units has many constraints at the farm management levels. Hens are exposed to the change of temperature of cold and heat stresses. Cannibalism Is a common phenomenon. Productivity of the birds is low. with respect to honeybee production, modern and transitional beehives are used. Modern hives are reported to be expensive and labour Intensive.

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5.0. Drought and its effects 5.1. Drought wollo has experienced three disastrous famines In the last 32 years, which contributed to the loss of many lives of human, and livestock. The 1993 EC famines were precipitated by the widespread failure In the mid 1972 of the main rains and total failure of 1973 belg rains. The 1984 famine was the most disastrous and widespread. Its Immediate cause was the failure of belg rains of 1984, following a poor harvest of the previous year. The capacity of the area to respond to such shock Is declining. in 1999, drought occurred In the zone from the failure of belg rains. During this time about 110,000 ha of land planted in cops had total failure of production (Meles G/Tsadik and Gebeyehu Goshu, 1999). Failure of belg rains is very critical to the zone particularly to western part since crop production in these areas depend on belg season.

The effect of 1999 drought is pronounced In all parts of the country. Due to the current drought, the relief food aids needs with respect to human population number and as percentage of zonal rural populations are presented in the following maps.

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RcHefFood Aid Nredj Me trie Tonne* of Crain Over 20,000 10,000 - 20,000 Rife 5.000 - 10,000 o 1.000 - 5,000 Below 1,000 o No ne'ed

A3 txvnitrm i ! » ayproiij>ttii s/il uxqffijtil CnpXIc by W ! P V A H U *it .4* y )0 0

Mttdy Populate?) as a Ptrc*ni of Rural Population > 75 51 to 75

AJl&c'Mfcntsan' jfjma-njr*’

The number of population affected In 1999 and food requirements of the different weredas of South wollo Is reported by DPPC and Indicated in table 7.

Table 7. Affected Population and Food Requirement In 2010 by Wereda, South Wollo*

wereda Pop. Food Requirement In MT Needing Grain Famlx Oil Total assistance Mekedela 51687 6447 677 226 7350 Tenta 92919 10096 1060 353 11510 kutaber 49934 5744 603 201 6549 Ambassel 66320 6967 732 244 7943 Tenuldere 22418 1500 - 1500 Werebabo 46726 5937 623 208 6768 kalu 56014 4501 473 158 5131 Dessie zuria 95478 9013 - 9013 Legambo 63656 6415 674 225 7313 Sayint 73695 8416 884 295 9594 Debresina 39180 4426 4426 kalala 33117 4470 4470 Jama 15334 1150 1150 werelu 56564 6367 6367 Wegede 22826 2397 2397 785864 83847 5725 1908 91481

'Source: Food Supply Prospect in 2000. vol 3. Early Warning System Report January 2000, p.51

Livestock production is greatly affected due to shortage of feed and water. Farmers attempted to mitigate the stress by selling their animals. However, the price was half of the normal day price and at the same time the money obtained by selling animals could not buy enough cereals due to a marked rise in the price of cereal crops. 5.2. Effects of 1999 Drought

The effects of the 1999 drought was studied by the Agricultural Department of the zone and summarized below.

5.2.1. Migration

Large numbers of drought victims leave their homes in rural areas and flock to the near by areas in search of labour opportunities and efforts to cuvti rood shortages.

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5.2.2. Shortage of oxen

Due to the drought, farmers were forced to sell their animals even at the lowest price. Many of the farmers have also lost their animals during the drought. As a result, the number of animals to be used for ploughing Is decreased and even the remaining Is weak to cultivate the land adequately.

5.2.3. High Prevalent of Diseases

As expected, the nutritional stresses both food and water can dispose the animals to lose resistant and become weak. Farmers have responded that faciolosls, pasteurellosls, anthrax and FMD were the major diseases encountered during the drought. Animals were forced to graze swampy areas which might be associated with a higher infectious rates and high losses.

5.2.4.Mortality

The effect of drought-induced mortality of cattle, shoats (sheep and goat) and equine from February to June 1999 were 52,612,125,900 and 15,171, respectively, in terms of mortality rate for the respective species are 3.4, 5.9 and 4.8%. The highest cattle mortality was in Legambo wereda. Ambasel and Tenta woredas, shoats and cattle have been the most vulnerable followed by equines.

5.2.5. Problem of Feeding guassa (Koeleria capensis/i

Guassa is usually used for roofing and cover floor, it is unpalatable and animals do not prefer this plant during normal years. However, during the drought farmers provide this plant to their animals. Feeding guassa resulted in scratch of oral mucosa and brought about salvation and choke. Due to the indigestibility nature of the grass, ruminal utility was almost zero and caused phytobolus in the tracts, which could be removed by opening the viscera of emaciated animals.

5.3. Measures Taken

The Administrative zone and DPPC and other NGO organizations have attempted to take actions during this period. Distribution of vaccines to affected weredas, drug supply and medical care. With the collaboration BGI Brewery factory at Kombolcha brewery grain was transported to the most affected areas in Dessie zuria, Tenta and Legambo Woredas.

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6.0. Analysis and Designing Honey bee Production Concerning bee keeping activities In this zone It is reported that three types of production systems: namely; traditional, intermediate (Top Bar hives) and improved (Moveable frame hives) technologies are under use by the farmer beekeepers, it Is also reported that about 137 modern hives and 24 intermediate hives (Top bar hives) were distributed for the farmers in the past five years, on the other hand, farmer beekeepers are also producing the prototypes of the Top bar hives from locally available raw materials using the moulds they got from the SIDA support as reported from the zonal livestock team leader. it was also reported from the zonal livestock team leader that bee keeping activities are under way (practiced) mostly in the western part of south wello namely: Debra Sina, wegidi, Sayint, Kelala, Mekdela, and also some part of eastern woredas like Ambessal and Dessee Zurla/ Kalu.

However unfortunately the team could not come across all through the trip any farmer having (under taking) bee-keeping activities except few farmers who were provided with three types of hives at the water shade management on-farm research, in addition to this, it was very difficult to come across any potential honey plant whether it is naturally growing, planted trees or cultivated honey source plants In such highly (badly) degraded lands, and thus it was not possible to get a swarm of bees to undertake (carry out) bee keeping activities in such areas.

Among those five support research sites, three of them; Ermati (08 kebele), Mekene selam (legamara site) and lastly the Kaladi (Dilfere Kebele) are supposed to be considered as demonstration and potential site for future bee keeping activities and for on station and on farm research activities and also for the surrounding farmer bee keepers, in this areas it was highly gratifying to see such potential honey plant seedlings are in the first place the endogenous honey source plants and secondly such plants namely Cordia africana (wanza), Croton — (Bisana), Hagenia abyssinica (koso), Acacia abysinca (Cirar), etc are locally adaptable trees and they do have multipurpose uses in bee keeping, soil conservation etc.

6.1. Constraint analysis Some of the major constraints concerning bee-keeping activities in this zone stated by the zonal livestock team leader and also as observed during the visit were: > Shortage of improved bee keeping technology > scarcity of honey bees flowering plants in a very sever condition > in adequate trained mnnpower lo undertake the management of improved bee keeping > Problem of colony adaptation to the moveable frame hive. This could be as a result of poor management and shortage of honey plant in the area

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> Farmers limited knowledge to undertake seasonal colony management and also less attention to develop & conserve honey source plants. > Hazards of pesticides to the honeybee due to the frequent occurrence of armyworms In this zone and consequently mass application of Insecticides. > Farmers poor purchasing capacity of Improved bee keeping technologies > Reduction of honeybee population most probably due to shortage of honeybee plants (both natural & cultivated) and also pesticide applications.

6.2. Future Direction

6.2.1.Water shade management site.

The future direction of on-farm research In the water shade area above all should focus on the following major points before commencing any bee keeping activities In the area and also to Improve productivity (honey, bees wax, and other valuable hive products).

6.2.1.1. Developing of Potential and endogenous honey plants Developing of Potential and endogenous honey plants to over come the scarcity of honey source plants > crowing different types of locally available (Indigenous) honey plants; e.g. wanza, Blsana, Cirar, Clrawa --etc. In the nursery sites

> Distribute their seedlings to the farmer beekeepers and help them plant it at their pack yard, as hedges, on the bands and also on uncultivabie land.

> Select multipurpose forage plants that is used both for the other livestock feeds and honeybee foraging (honey source) e.g. vetch, alfalfa, Clovers, different types of leguminous spps. etc.

> Cultivate various types of Oil crops, Pulses, fruits and vegetables, etc. depending on their adaptability to the areas. If so, they are also potential honey source plants.

6.2.1.2. Using improved techniques of honey bee Management Whatever types of beehives (traditional, intermediate, and or modern) are used, appropriate seasonal management of honeybees play the great role to improve the productivity of the honeybees. Some of the major management systems to be strictly followed are:

> Appropriate time to prepare hives to catch a swarm of bees and or to transfer in to improved hives following the right time of the blooming of potential honey source plants in the area.

- Appropriate time of honeybee (hive) manipi:!r.-w~ r Building up the r.ewiy ^augnc or transferred honeybee colonies

15 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

Fulfilling the necessary arrangements in the hive such as fulfilling the missing combs, changing old combs, spurring (addition of extra boxes, inserting queen excluder, and harvesting honey.

6.2.1.3. Using Improved and manageable bee hives. in this zone, low adaptability, more absconding, less productivity, difficulty of operation, high price of moveable frame hives and their auxiliary equipment, and other problems related with modern (moveable frame) hives was reported from the zonal and woreda's livestock experts and development agents.

This could be due to a couple of reasons including poor management (handling) due to shortage of knowledge for the experts, development agents and farmers too. Thus, it would be better to undertake the bee keeping activities using locally available hives, and also hives that can easily be made locally and managed by the beekeepers easily be it traditional or intermediate.

The moveable frame hive does have more advantages over the intermediate Top Bar and traditional basket hive both In the quantity and quality of hive products harvested. However, to attain such improved productivity from such Improved hives, emphasis has to be given to train the users how to manage such improved technologies and also it should depend on the interest of the users to use it or not.

6.2.2. Emphasis on Support sites

The activities on bee keeping started at different on-farm research sites with the water shade management seem relatively encouraging.

Especially the introduction of different types (methods) of bee keeping (traditional, intermediate & modern or frame hives) using locally available materials is very interesting.

More over, the development of different types of plant seedlings at different sites will support the future development of bee keeping and will improve the honeybee production & productivity.

The integration of forage & pasture development & water shade management program will also give promising life for the conservation of soil, plant growing, existence of populous honey bee colonies in the area and make possible production of surplus hive products. So, using these on-farm research (study) as a demonstration sites, a couple of farmers can be trained and be involved in bee keeping to get additional income from such aside line activity as suggested for the first part of on-farm research program at the water shade management.

6.2.2.1. Deorasina (Mekaneselam) Among the visited support sites at the water shade management area, Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

Mekane selam (Legamara) nursery sites seem potential to undertake bee­ keeping activities, as It Is relatively an ideal site. There Is fresh water, various types of Indigenous honey plants like Cirar, different types of clovers and other forage plants used for the livestock and honey bees growing in this site. There are also different types of Indigenous honey plants seedlings like, wanza, Blsana, Cirar, high land acacia, Euculyptus, lucenla etc and this plants seedlings are the potential honey source plants In the coming few years for the water shade management program and the surrounding farmer beekeepers.

Thus great attention should bee given on this point and it would be better to put different types of hives (traditional, intermediate and modern) in this site and observe the adaptability and the productivity of each hives in this area.

6.2.2.2. Ermati (08 Kebele) This nursery site is also relatively potential to put some hives from different types and observe their progress, in this site there are different types of seedlings of indigenous & exotic plants that can be used for livestock feeds and honey bees forages especially, Eucalyptus, vetch, -- etc.

6.2.3. Fulfilling other requirements

It is clear and also as discussed during the debriefing that the objective of this travelling seminar is to evaluate the on going activities with constraints and designing future directions. Thus, in order to attain a sustainable improvement in the production of honeybees in this on farm research at water shade management, in addition to the above-mentioned points, great emphasis has also to be given on: Training the Technical assistance, development agents, and Farmer beekeepers. Fulfilment of improved bee keeping equipment Accessibility of credits services for the farmers ❖ Marketing strategy.

6.2.3.1. Marketing strategy The major objective of this travelling seminar is to seek means & measures which will in crease the contribution of livestock sub-sector to the income of small holder and the regional revenue and eventually improve the living standard and ensure food security at the house hold level. This can only be achieved through the improvement of productivity of livestock and livestock products marketing. To this end strategy has to be designed through which the productivity and marketing aspect of livestock should be improved.

This activity needs study and analysis of the present state of regional livestock production, productivity, health situation, manaapmpnt; m3:’::Gtirig & policy environment both di regional & national level to identify the major constraints. Based on this analysis, sustainable regional livestock productivity

17 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000 improvements, which will bring about concrete socio-economic Improvement at household level, will be proposed.

Hive products marketing There is strong demand for all types of honey produced In Ethiopia. Tej makers through out the country use traditional honey, which makes up more than 99% of the total, and the same Is true for south wello zone. The domestic market for bees- wax consists mainly of church candles and offers little potential for further development.

Those who are far from urban centres experience marketing problem and during the raining seasons Is all areas. How ever such problem was not reported In this south wello zone and this might be due unavailability of the product it self. Most problems of honey bee products lie not only is the marketing but also Is processing & handling to keep the quality of the product & get good price.

To overcome these problems, establishing pilot programs for processing and marketing honeybee products will be Important may be in the long run when bee keeping activities commenced In most part of the program area after the establishment of potential honey source plants.

This proposal foresees an organization of producers who establish and use common processing facilities and market the product through a channel of their choices, which they deem to bring them maximum benefit. This pilot program will be more successful if it focuses on area where improved & potential bee keeping activities is In operation and where surplus production is obtained. Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

7.0. Analysis and Designing of Poultry Production

This report Is based on the trip made to the on-farm research activities of the sida financed watershed management sites In south wollo and the Kombolcha Poulixv Breeding and Multiplication centre. The focus here Is on the poultry activities. It was gratifying to see poultry on-farm research Included in the water-shade management activities. Very good structures and facilities are In place at the Kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication centre. There is a big development potential given some additional resources and management inputs. The technologies tested In the on-farm trials are the extension package of the Ministry of Agriculture and the "6-hen unit" as a housing option. The * 6- hen unit" trial has already been stopped based on the recommendation of this group during the earlier tour of east Cojam. There was an opportunity to discuss with Ministry of Agriculture staff at different levels, farmers involved in the on-farm trials and the Kombolcha breeding and multiplication centre staff. Based on the discussions and observations made, attempt is made to identify constraints, suggest future directions for Improvement and finally forward some Ideas for on-farm and on-station research to generate data for poultry development In the program woredas and possibly other areas with similar situations.

7.1. Constraint analysis 7.1.1. watershed management sites

One of the poultry technologies being tested at the on- farm trials was the "6- hen unit". This trial has already been stopped based on the recommendation of this group during the earlier tour of east Cojam. The technology is developed for conditions of space shortage and situations where complete feed containing all the nutrients needed by the chicken is supplied.

The farmers here like those in east Cojam reported low productivity of the Rhode island Red (RIR) chicken and large variations in productivity among the hens. This makes one to suspect the integrity of the RIR chicken from their original place (the breeding and multiplication centres). > Poor hatchability of eggs from RIR by local chicken was also reported especially in high altitudes. This could be as a result of many factors including the genetics of the stock the RIR have originating from, inbreeding, management of the hatching eggs and the broody hen etc. > Only one of the technology packages of the Ministry of Agriculture (1 cock and 5 pullets) is being tested. This provides limited choice of technologies. > The RIR breed seems to be even more accepted in south wollo than East Cojjam due mainly to their desirable colour for the extensive spcrifiri?.! roles of rhicken in Wollo There is, how«?v-:', jr: expressed interest of farmers to get otner egg type birds like the white leghorn. > No training in improved poultry production is given at all levels, i.e. farmers, Development agents, extension agents and subject matter

19 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

specialists. > Poultry production In the rural areas Is considered to be the responsibility of women and children. However, the participation of women and children in the visited sites was not visible > Resources in terms of supplementary feed etc. seem to be more scarce In south wollo compared to East Gojjam. > south wollo seems to be more diverse In terms of resource endowment, terrain, soil fertility etc. > The Amhara National regional state Is one of the areas of the country with rich poultry genetic resources and diversity. The rapid introduction of exotic blood without characterization of the available resources and parallel genetic conservation measures poses a threat of genetic dilution. > Many farmers are interested to receive RIR chicken. However, there is inadequate supply of RIR pullets from the Breeding and Multiplication centres to meet the demand.

7.1.2. Kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication centre

The centre has an annual capacity of producing 72,000 Pullets and cockerels, 175,000-345,000 day-old chicks, 270,000 fertile eggs and processing more than 1,200 tones of mixed feed. Major facilities are in place. There are, however, unused and under utilized facilities/resources. > The feed processing facilities are not used to capacity due to problems of feed ingredient availability especially due to transportation problems. The management is trying Its best to produce mixed feed at least for the centre's consumption. The available capacity is, however, large enough to satisfy the requirement of South wollo and adjacent areas at least in the short run. > The hatchery, especially after the installation of a new incubator with about 18,000 eggs capacity, is huge capacity. However, the available brooding facilities are not compatible with the hatching capacity. > The RIR parent stock in the centre was kept for many generations. There is a need to change the parent stock at the centre more frequently in order to maintain high standards of production and reproduction. > Large sets of data on the hatchery operation and performance of the stock raised in the centre have accumulated. These data have not effectively been analysed and used for decision-making. > Only one breed type namely the RIR is available. No choice of breed is given to farmers. Many farmers have expressed interest for other breeds of chicken like the white Leghorn that are specialised egg producers. > Absence of mechanism for follow-up of the performance (impact assessment) of chicken distributed to farmers from the centre.

7.2. Future Direction

7.2.1. Watershed m?»r*3seinent sites

> There is a need to rely on locally available resources for the supply of the Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

feed needed for poultry development in the program woredas: - Possible combination and options for testing are presented in the "Ideas for on-farm testing’' section of this report. > Low productivity, big farmers reported variation between birds and poor hatchability of eggs from RIR hens. This could be due to many possible reasons including the productivity of the source stock at the BMC. Based on the reports from the Kombolcha poultry BMC, the source flock has been used for many generations. This is indicates that the source flock has an im portant contribution to the reported problems. There is a need to analyse the data on the Kombolcha poultry BMC and see whether there is deterioration in the productivity of successive generations to substantiate the decision. It looks that there is a need to change the parent stock at the BMC. > Only one option (5 RIR pullets + 1 coke) is being tested in the poultry on- farm trials. There are other intervention options like Cockerel exchange (expressed interest of some farmers), which could prove to be effective. Possible combination and options for testing are presented in the "Ideas for on-farm testing" section of this report. The testing, for example, of a cockerel exchange program seems to be more feasible here where resource limitations are more obvious than in east Gojjam. > Poultry management is mainly an activity handled by women. The involvement of women in the current on-farm trials is not visible. This could be due to traditional reasons. Experience in many other places has shown that working can attain success with women through women extension agents, women should be trained and retrained in rural poultry "on-site" to become extension agents to other women in the village. Education of men on the role of women in rural poultry development and what they (the men) have to gain should as much as possible form part of the poultry extension and on-farm research activities. > The small size of operation and the large number of smallholder producers result in gross inefficiencies in the marketing system. This is due to lack of proper organization in the marketing channels, which means that individual producers bare the whole cost of their marketing. The possibility of supply the large urban markets with eggs from rural areas is hampered by the high costs of egg collection and transport. The capacity of rural markets to absorb increased quantities of poultry is limited. Producers' associations for the supply of inputs and product marketing should be encouraged. Such systems will protect the interests of individual producers and attract technical assistance and cooperation that would be impossible for an individual small holder. > Development of poultry activities in close proximity to one another is useful to organize input supply, extension services including provision of vaccination and also marketing. It is therefore advisable that the watershed management on-farm trials and other development efforts consider this. > Many farmers especially those with better resources consider poultry as a sideline business. Experience in rural poultry development else where has shown that focusing on low-income groups provides better success rate. This might require clustering farmers into groups based on resource Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

doing this. This can be considered as killing two birds with one stone in that the students get an opportunity to work on practical problems and at the same time the data will be analysed and interpreted in a meaningful way. > The BMC's are keeping only one breed, the RIR, and do not provide options of other breeds like specialized egg laying breeds. There is expressed interest for such breeds by farmers. There should be preparedness to supply options based on farmers' choices. > The Kombolcha BMC has, thus far, distributed a large number of poultry. However, there is no mechanism of follow up of the performance of these chickens. A follow up mechanism needs to be devised possibly by the Bureau of Agriculture. This is important to take necessary corrective measures timely. Now that the Kombolcha BMC is upgraded to a research centre, this should be one of the activities it should embark on immediately. > According to the regional Agricultural research master plan, the Kombolcha poultry BMC has been selected as a poultry research sub-centre in the aimrs. It is believed that the centre should immediately start some relevant on- station research work to support the poultry extension effort in general and the on-farm research activities at the watershed management sites. The Kombolcha poultry BMC should be given a leading role in the conduct of the poultry on-farm trials in close collaboration and cooperation with the South wollo Agricultural Bureau.

23 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

8.0. Analysis and Designing of Sheep and Coat Production Sheep and goats make an important contribution to the subsistence sub sector of the economy of Ethiopia. Livestock are the major source of income and employment for most of the rural dwellers that are the majority of the population. Sheep and goats provide quick cash income for rural community when ever the need arise. Meat production from small ruminants is very important in Ethiopia. This is because these animals are more suitable for family consumption, than large ruminants owing to their comparatively small carcasses (10-15 kg). The skins contribute substantially to foreign earnings next to coffee. Locally the skins are used extensively in traditional techno-culture. They are used notably in the making of footwear, mates, and musical instruments, covering handles of tools, and serve as clothes.

Their adaptive features such as feeding behaviour enables them too effectively cope with the stressful conditions of marginal environments. Also the recovery capacity of small ruminants from drought is very remarkable due to their efficient reproductive behaviour (short lambing/kidding intervals) and variable body size with low maintenance requirements in unfavourable environments.

The need for increased human food and cash production in the country has reduced the size of grazing lands and land for intensive fodder production. This has made nutrition a major constraint to livestock production. Linder nutrition further increases the risk to animals of disease, inability to feed animals adequately through out the year is the main problem. In Ethiopia, feed availability and cost will be the major determining factor for increasing animal productivity.

South Wello consists of the largest sheep population of the Amhara region, in the zone as it is true for most parts of the country, sheep are a means of savings. Sheep in particular, whose, hair/wool and meat is valued, have the advantage of being easily convertible into cash and represent capital that can be adjusted to cash needs. Small ruminant are small in size, it means low unit cost is required to start or expand a flock. If the animal dies as a result of disease or an accident the loss of capital is minimal as compared to large ruminants. Handling and husbandry are much easier, and within the capabilities of the women and children who generally provide much of the labour on small family farms. Sheep farming because of its easiness to market, it allows the farmers to meet unexpected expenditure quickly.

Except the piecemeal work done by some interested individuals there is no much work that focus on sheep fattening or genetic conservation. The government should do the latter one. The information gathered during the visit indicated that sheep fattening is not a common practice and is at its infantry stage.

24 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

In che zone due to the uncertainty of rainfall in amount and distribution, drought occurs frequently. Crop production is not dependable in most parts of the werda. Regarding sheep the main problem is the feeding of the flock in the dry seasons. Production could be improved considerably if the availability of supplemental feeds were facilitated (natural pasture hay, crop residues, improved forages...). Thus deaths in drought period and forced sales due to feed scarcity could be arrested, stubble and straw constitute the principal food for few months after harvest. Facilitating the feeding of sheep in the more difficult mountainous area would be advisable. Efforts must be made to avoid the high mortality rate in the dry season/drought years caused by feed scarcity and the forced sale that precede the dry season. in the water shade area, pastureland and its resources don't belong to the individual; a community of users holds them collectively. Each member of the community has the right to make use of these resources. Sheep production could be improved, if a way were found to regulate grazing on pastureland more effectively. Apart this shortly after harvests the proprietor/farmer losses the right to the exclusive use of his land, and any flock from the community can graze upon it. And since there are no fences, a farmer who tries to establish a pasture or fodder shrubs on his fallow land or in the bund runs the problem of having his plot grazed by somebody's flock.

8.1. Constraint analysis Traditional sheep production in the water shade area confronts certain difficulties, which can be summarized as fellows. Low genetic potential of the breeds/types. Lack of control of the timing or the duration of the mating season, rams are left in the flock year round. Luck of proper attention in the feeding of ewes during critical phases of production. Luck of special attention to the lambs at birth and during their growth and development. Limited quantity and quality of feed for much of the year. Supplemental feed is not adequately available to arrest mortality/morbidity of sheep. The land is used simultaneously for both cultivation and grazing. The large numbers of animals kept in these villages lead to overstocking especially in cropping season where natural pasture is reduced almost to zero. This result not only in inadequate feed but also in poorer quality pastures each year.

8.2. Future Direction

8.2.1. General

To improve the life of rural and periurban people, who is marginalized through rapid population growth and land degradation, all sectors, which deal

25 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000 with, the farmers in one way or another should have to work hand in hand. Linkages between government and private sectors in improving the family incomes through viable and integrated projects should streamline.

Regarding small ruminants both short and long term interventions can be done, in short term the focus will be to develop packages in feed, health and other management practices, while the long term should deal with conservation and improvement of the existing sheep breeds/types.

Recommendations To expand the feed base for livestock, farmers must be encouraged to plant cultivated forage crops & shrubs and to conserve crop residues They should also be trained how these feed resources could be utilized during drought years and dry spells. Action should be taken to correct the problem of overgrazing and ploughing of steep slopes.

8.2.2. Gugftu Sheep Ranch

One of the private sheep, farm established in 199KEC) on 222 ha of land at 3580 m asl in South wello with the objective of fattening and breeding of sheep.

Overall picture of the farm Total area 222 ha Developed pasture 35 ha Castrated sheep 293 Female lambs born at the farm 274 Ewes 463 Awsassi ram 1 Lamb 181 Barn Different capacity Generator 1

The main problem stressed by the farm attendant is lack of improved rams. The farm at the moment has only one Awassi ram to be used for the breeding purpose, using of one ram might lead for inbreeding besides one ram cannot serve the whole flock. The regional government and the Bureau of Agriculture should encourage the farm by developing a means that the ranch could get enough number of rams to be used for breeding purpose. A close collaboration work should be established with Sheno Research Centre's Sheep improvement Program. Researchers at Sheno will prepare a breed-recording format that could be used by the ranch. This will enable the farm to collect data, which could be analysable.

Recommendations A means should be developed that the farm could acquire improved rams from the government sheep ranches.

26 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

The ranch should work closely with Sheno Research centre in the areas of sheep breeding, nutrition and health. The ranch should keep and updates all records of the farm.

8.2.3. Fleece Production & Cottage Industry

Wool has been one of the most important products of sheep for so many years, providing fibber with valuable properties for clothing and carpets. Ethiopia imports thousands tons of wool annually for its blanket factory. The demand of the factory and cottage industries could be full filled if efforts were put into selection/crossbreeding program and if markets are organized through farmers associations, cooperatives or wool warehouses.

The fleece produced in the area is not of high quality. Farmers shear their sheep using hand shears (blades). The difficulty to use blades is besides its slowness it is difficult to learn to use with ease and with skill.

It is a high time and is important that marketing and processing industries could join in efforts to improve fleece production quantitatively and qualitatively. The following steps could be used to improve fleece productivity.

Organize the market/secure the market of fleece Adopt better shearing practices Improve the quality of fleece improve the storage system

Areas, which need attention in the areas of, fleece production and cottage industries. improve the fleece weight and fleece quality of the sheep population through selection/crossbreeding. Organize and secure the market based on the quality and colour of the fleece. improve the different equipment used from shearing up to final production Organize the producer and secure market for the end products.

27 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

region. The prevalence of these diseases greatly affects exports of live animals Economic loss as a result of prevalence of various diseases in the region is paramount. ^ Inadequate support and inappropriate technology package: The attention given to the support services and technology package development for large ruminant in the region has been inadequate. The linkage between research and extension is virtually non-existent. ^ Poor infrastructure problems: The major infrastructure problems facing large ruminants in the region are under developed livestock markets (live animals & their products and by-products) inadequate input distribution system and unavailability of credit facilities. > Shortage of trained manpower: The regional trained manpower force in animal sciences is very limited as compared to crop science. 9.2. Future Direction

The large ruminant (draft/beef and milk) development interventions can be tackled at on-farm as well at on-station simultaneously in the short and long terms, in the short term fattening of old oxen both on-farm and on-station can generate valuable information. Genetic improvement for milk production can be handled on-farm by using high grade breeding bulls for upgrading local cattle cross breeding and selection of high milk yielding indigenous cattle breed can be undertaken on-station mainly at Andassa Cattle Research Center.

9.2.1.Watershed Management

9.2.1.1. Draught oxen fattening in Ethiopian farming system draft animal technology has been qualified as an ecologically sustainable means of increasing agricultural productions reducing human drudgery and improving the quality of rural life. However, the supply of satisfactory levels of draft animal power at the right time for crop production requires sound management of draft animals through cut the year. Relevant feature of draft animal management include adequate feeding and health care.

The identification of feeding and management strategies for draft oxen and fattening of old for oxen for beef purpose to create the missing link between draft animal and beef. An Ethiopian beef consumers pay substantial premium for old fattened ox. There are several national holidays when beef price is high. Therefore farmers must take into account when feed (crop residues) are available and the animal is not needed for draft purposes. The major holidays that are very favorable are Meskel, Christmas and Fasica. Therefore the fattening period should focus to tap these markets.

9.2.1.2. Genetic improvement through grade Breeding Bulls in the south Wello watershed area cattle breed improvement program using pure exotic/grade breeding bulls is currently operational in Jama Wereda. The bull station was established and ran by boa. There are three breeding Friesian grade bulls. The management of the bulls (housing, feeding and health care) is

29 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

very goods except that the bulls are getting old (8-10 yrs old) and heavy. At the breeding situation breeding records are kept (date of services cows description its owner location, breed type etc). However, there is no follow up on the number of calf crop born from these breeding bulls, in order to minimize inbreeding and increase breeding efficiency. > Systematic bull rotation system be established > Record keeping be systematic r- Animal identification be introduced > Calf crop registration be introduced > Performance evaluation - milk yield, offspring recorded and survival rate evaluated > Crossbred herd registration be introduced

There are large number of crossbred animals in the region. In this region the male cross bred are being used for draft purpose on vertisol of the region. I have been informed that the demand for crossbred oxen is three times that of the local ox.

9.2.1.3. Introduction of livestock recording system Livestock production in the water shade area is characterized by absence of basic livestock indicator data base, it is important to introduce some basic data recording system. The herd inventory data system should include : > Livestock (species) ownership per household > Herd size by household/ community group. > Livestock density per target area > Herd composition

Herd Productivity data include: > Feed availability ( crop residue by type, feeding system) > Calving season > Season of surplus milk > Off-take rate recording (season when animal are sold) > Record mortality rate -record livestock death by species, age.

9.2.1.4.Improve Milk Production of Indigenous Animal > improve management system of local cows. > Identify high yielding cows through milk recording.

9.2.2. On-Station Andassa cattle breeding and multiplication center. The work which is and will be undertaken at Andassa cattle breeding center will be applicable for south wello as well. Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

10.0. Analysis and Designing of Feed Resource Management

Six of the SIDA supported project sites were visited: Slrlnka, Ermetl (Legambo woreda, 2300 m.a.s.l.), mekane Selarr. (Debre Slna woreda, 2500 m.a. s. I) keladi (Debre Slna Woreda, 2550 m.a.s.l), Kabl (Were illu woreda, 2550 m.a.s.l.), Degelo uamma woreda, 2550 m.a.s.l). As could be Judged from the recorded altitude, all the sites represent the higher- highlands of south wollo, generally beyond 2500 m.a.s.l. which Is one of the most fragile environments of the country. Logically, development technologies that may prove successful achievements on these project sites will have wide applications over most of the wollo highlands and the central north highlands at large. Therefore, their designation as project sites seems to be rational.

10.1. Constraint analysis 10.1.1. General constraints

South Wollo Is on the top of the list of regions in ecological degradation. This underlines for ecological unsuitability and recurrent droughts that brought above catastrophe over the past two decades. One of such event occurred in south Wollo that was labelled by world annalists as "the great famine of Ethiopia". The natural vegetation is destroyed and no traces of the relict vegetation can be seen. Annual grasses dominate the herbaceous vegetation and forbs that are least preferred by livestock. The traditional agriculture in its crudest stage aggravates land degradation whereby fanners scratch the topsoil and expose it for erosion. The net effect of this misuse is poor crop and livestock productivity, leading to severe poverty.

10.1.2. Specific constraints

Crazing lands

Sporadic bits of grazing lands can be found in the steepest and least cultivable facets of the area. As such lands are not grazing land in its true sense because virtually there is nothing that animals can graze. Such lands simply serve to restrain stocks so that they don't damage crops during the growing season. A close investigation of the vegetation composition in these lands shows dominance of unpalatable forbs and succulent shrubs like red hotpocker (kniphophia thomsonii), crinum (Crunum Kirki\), lobelia (Lobelia gibberrosa). These species are the result of heavy grazing pressure, which gave a competitive advantage over the palatable species. Besides, the extreme low temperature limits the plant diversity to a few cold-tolerant grasses like "nua?sa" !£oe!mU -Znperisis). "ginchir";Penniseium eryrnreae) and tuiaua polynevra, all of which are wiry and least palatable.

31 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

Bottomlands are relatively more productive grazing lands than uplands, unfortunately, In South wollo, such lands are not common a situation contrary to East GoJJam. As observed In some of the woredas, the bottomlands are deserted into drifts and gullies with poor vegetation cover, some times they occur as bars sand flats surrounded by mountain massif, where in such cases, they stay as frost pockets from October up to December at which time the vegetation looks burned. This should account for the poor adaptability of sown pastures at a site near Gerado.

Besides, every farmer try to exploit the maximum benefit from such communal grazing lands by keeping all livestock (cattle, horses, donkey, sheep) out in the field without employing any management control. Especially sheep are kept in large numbers and their special ability to graze close to the ground seems to have exacerbated overgrazing and subsequent land deterioration.

Lack of Diversity in Crop by-products

in the high altitude woredas in particular, the extreme low temperature limits or totally excludes the growth of warm season food crops like maize, sorghum, tef and the pulses except faba bean and field pea. Clearly, the quantity as well as quality of feeds coming from the cool season crops (barely, wheat and upland pulses) is not as good as that from the warm season crops.

Use of Crop By-products for Fuel and Construction

in extreme high altitude woredas (>2500 m.a.s.l), woody vegetation is absent. Tall grassed like thatch grass (Hyparrhenia spp) cannot thrive at such elevations. The most successful food crop is barley, unfortunately, barley straw is almost uniformly everywhere used for house construction (thatching and mud binder) and as fuel instead of using for animal feed. Cattle manure is also used for fuel, which means there is always export of nutrients away from the pastureland. 10.2. Future Directions

10.2.1. Livestock Exclusion Areas Development

Following the new land use policy of the region anticipated to be implemented soon, the first step to be taken to avert the dangers of ecological degradation would be to delineate slopping areas beyond 20 - 30% slope and impose absolute protection from both grazing and cropping until full recuperation of the land, say for 2 - 5 years. At the same time organized group of farmers could be allowed for a cut - and - carry use of the herbaceous growth for livestock under close advisory of extension personnel. Such practice is being used in Tigrai region. Experience can be gained about its benpflciarips as well as the limitations. This system wiii allow implementation of degraded pasture improvement techniques such as over sowing with adapted improved forage species.

32 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

10.2.2. Forage Nurseries in spite of the ecological limitations of South wollo, the diversity of Improved forage and pasture species under multiplication In the various nursery sites Is fair enough to start with. Many of the promising temperate forages are under multiplication at least In one of the sites, it was gratifying to see fodder beet being successfully multiplied at Kabi and Jamma forage nurseries. Elsewhere in Ethiopia this attempt has been with limited success, which could be due to both environmental factors and seed/genetlc attributes.

One important limitation in the nursery operation is the lack of appreciation for indigenous forage and browse species. No appreciable number of indigenous species has been included In the seed production effort at all sites. At Mekane Selam (2500 m) and Degelo (Jamma woreda, 2550m), excellent stands of the native medics and clovers like Trlfollum simense, Trlfolium semipilosvm, Trlfolium cry pcopodlum, and several species In the genus Medicago were observed along the periphery of the nurseries. They would certainly outperform their exotic herbaceous equivalents owing to their readily adapting to the native soli (nutrients, Rhlzobla) and climate, it is suggested that these materials should be collected, multiplied and utilized at least for over-sowing degraded pastures to Improve herbage yield and quality.

10.2.3. Watershed Management Sites

Actually there were not many watershed sites in South Wollo unlike in East Gojjam. The Only site was Keladi (2550-27000 m.a.s.l) where substantial effort has been placed in trying to stabilize gullies through a combination of check dams and re-vegetating gully sides, water harvesting techniques were being demonstrated for irrigated horticultural crop production. Kelad watershed site has a sharply contrasting topography ranging from 2500 m.a.s.l on the nearly level area along the main road to about 2700 m.a.s.l. on the higher terrace of the massif. Tree lucerne was observed doing well at that high elevation site where the low temperature would definitely exclude most other forage species.

Whereas the severity of land degradation in South wollo justifies intensive effort in conservation-oriented development programs, the amount of work on this line seems to be weaker than what was observed in East Gojjam. so much of the already built conservation bands are still rugged that if left for the natural way of vegetation regeneration, then erosion will exceed the process result in total loss.

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11.0. Priority Areas

Availability of feed resources Is very critical at the watershed sites. Thus, It is felt to focus primarily on development of feed resources in 1993. The Introduction of improved forage species for ruminants can promote the sustainability of cropping systems. In addition to their feeding value, they have great role In controlling erosion by providing cover and to increase soil fertility. There are many options to incorporate forage Into the crop- livestock production system, some forages species are being tested at the different sites for their adaptation and later on to introduce'to watershed sites. There Is a growing Interest of farmers to have Improved breeds for dairy and sheep production. However, Improvement of the feed budget to maintain the existing animal population and potential to sustain the requirements of improved breeds have to be assessed after the feed development activities. This assessment is expected to be undertaken at the end of 1993 EC fiscal year. Thus, Increased resource allocation for the research In the target sites Is necessary to focus on integrated feed development including extending the number of species ❖ water harvesting technologies: rainwater conservation, harvesting, recycling and efficient should become the focal point of watershed management and development to create a significant impact on agriculture on rain fed agriculture. ❖ Strategic trials designed for poultry production needs adequate attention. ❖ To initiate conservation strategies on degraded land that is potentially to be converted into galleys If the same management is followed. The current conservation strategies focus on land that was converted into galleys due to degradation ❖ Extend farmers' forage nursery to other sites. Farmers' forage nursery developed at Kobe is highly appreciated. Designating research program that address per-urban and urban dairy and poultry production systems. Taking the comparative advantage of Kombolcha Poultry Breeding and Multiplication Centre, it is imperative to design future oriented strategy for diversification and specialization of rural skills in poultry production. The centre can play a significant role in participatory development project that pivot on focused groups distinguished on the basis of gender and age cohorts. ❖ Extending of nutrient cycling through various strategies. The effort made in making composite fertilizer by the farmers at Keleadi need to be extended.

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12.0. On-farm Research Proposal

12.1. Poultry Production observations of South wollo show that It is very diverse in terms of agro­ ecology, resource endowment, vegetation cover, soli cover, agricultural productivity, altitude etc. Therefore, all of the suggested on-farm trials may not be relevant to all scenarios prevailing In the region, it Is, therefore, suggested that which trials are most relevant to which p.lace should be decided through discussions among the implementing extension staff, Animal science group at the zone and the kombolcha BMC.

1. Testing alternative locally available feed sources > Sustainable poultry development has to be based on feeds available locally. > Mixture of 30 gm corn + 30 gm broken up Noug cake /hen/day supplement + scavenging was found to improve egg production by 100% over scavenging only around Debre Zelt > this finding could be tested In the watershed management sites and compared to a combination that includes dried Acella. The three feed resources happen to be readily available in south wollo.

Methods treatment 1 Mixture of 30 gm corn + 30 gm broken up Noug cake /hen/day supplement + scavenging treatment 2:- 20 gm com + 20 gm Noug + 20 gm dried Attela /hen/day supplement + scavenging

'Three farmers in a watershed will be used for each of the treatments 'Local measuring tools that can be readily used by the farmers after the experiment should be used to measure the stated quantities. 'other locally available ingredients (Another grain to replace maize and/or the protein supplement-Noug may be used) Breed:-R\R chicken

Data to be collected > Egg production monthly (weekly preferably) > Quantity of supplement consumed and approximate cost > Condition of birds as judged y the farmers (poor, good, very good) Duration: 1 year to see seasonal effects

2. creep feeding chicks to improve growth and survival rates

> 50-60% chick loss up to eight weeks of age due to malnutrition and competition > Preferential feeding of chirks has been shown tr. imnrnwg chick growth dim survival Methods

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Supply extra feed In a " creep feeder that preferentially provides feed to chicks. The creep feeder can be made of local materials like bamboo etc. the prototype of such a creep feeder can be obtained from the Debre zeit Agricultural Research centre (DZARC). The performance and survival of the creep fed chicks could be compared to chicks raised the traditional way.

Data to be collected > Mortality > Chick condition/ growth as judged by farmers (very good, good, poor). Duration: 16 weeks

3. Testing the "hay box Chick brooder1' under farm ers management. A chick brooding method that doesn't require artificial heat or heat from the broody hen known as the "hay box chick brooder "developed at the Jima college of agriculture has successfully been tested by the Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Centre in the central highlands.

Methods phase I. The method should be tested at the Kombolcha poultry BMC for feasibility. This opportunity should be used to train DA s and Extension agents who will be involved in the on-farm testing of the method. phase ll. Selected farmers could be given the "hay box chick brooders", chicks and mixed feed from the BMC's possibly on credit and contracted to brood chicks that could be distributed or transferred to other farmers that want grown up chicken (pullets/cockerels).

Data to be collected > Mortality > Chick condition as judged by farmers (very good, good, poor). > Environmental Temperature Duration:-12 Weeks

* it is best to test the chick brooder at four different altitude ranges to see the feasibility of the method at different altitudes and environmental temperatures.

4. Testing intervention options of breed improvement in addition to the 5 pullet + 1 cockerel option being evaluated now there is an expressed interest by farmers to try other options. Methods -the 5 pullet + 1 cockerel option vs_C0Ckerel exchange program, i.e. provision of exotic cockerels in exchange for competing local cockerels can be compared.

Data i~ ccl.'cctsd > comparative evaluation of the pure exotic offspring with the contemporary crosses resulting from the second option as judged by the farmers.

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> Egg production collected monthly (preferably weekly). 12.2. Small Ruminant Production

in the project area, sheep fattening using supplementation Is not widely used. This Is mainly because of scarcity of supplemental feed, it Is planned to develop enough feed (forage legumes and browse species) first before indulging to sheep fattening schemes.

Forage legumes, which has been tested and found to be adaptable in the project area should be widely, planted and grow to be used as a protein source. After this stage (second phase) sheep fattening program could commence. Till this time comes, a farmer who has the potential and interest for fattening could start the program with the consultation of the subject matter specialist.

1. Title: Economic Visibility of sheep Fattening on the Water shade Area of South Wello

Objectives v To quantify the amount and type of feed/s used for fattening In the project area. *1* To assess the profitability of the scheme.

Materials and Methods Farmers, who traditionally fatten sheep, will be selected In the project area. Criteria of selection will be developed latter on with the consultation of the subject matter specialists and development agent (proximity, voluntaries...).

Data to be collected All routine activities of fattening will be recorded on daily basis. **** Location/project site Date fattening started Date fattening completed ♦♦♦ Initial weight **** weight of the animal every two weeks *1* Final weight of the sheep *1* Type of feed/s offered (daily) *** Amount offered (daily) ♦♦♦ Left over (daily) v Time of the day that the animal offered **** seasonal variation of reed offered Sample of the feed on weekly basis *1* Number of sheep used

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**»* Age of sheep *1* Sex of sheep castrated/ Intact male *1* Breed/origin of the sheep **** Natural forage resources available (depending on season, crops grown, etc) *> Agro-industrial by-products available, their location and price **** Price of bought in feed including salt ♦> Type of medicament and treatment (drugs, traditional medicines) *1* Price of drugs *1* season favoured for fattening **** Duration, length of fattening period v price of the sheep before fattening (expected) **** Opportunities for sale of animals v Sale price v Methods of marketing and prices v Size of markets **** Non-family labour ♦> investment cost (sheep house, feed troughs, hay racks, water trough) ♦> capitalization through Increase in the value of flock, mainly increases in the number of animals v Net income from the sale price of the animal fattened during the year. *t* Any other

2. Title: On-Farm Sheep Fattening Using Cultivated Forages and Concentrates

Background and Justification Sheep has a well-founded reputation for hardiness and is regarded as one of the species most adept at living of limited forage resources on unproductive soil. To improve productivity of sheep, efforts must be made to increase the quantity and quality of the feed offered, otherwise the desired increase will not be attained.

Natural pasture only supports satisfactory productive performance for a relatively short period of time. South Wello, where SIDA is actively involved have the potential to produce different types of forage legumes as demonstrated in the project area. Most of the legumes proved to be better of the natural pasture in biomass yield. If these forage legumes are planted in bunds, waste lands and as a backyard o ops, besides cf their advantage in improving soil fertility and bund stabilization, they could be used as a supplemental feed since they are rich in protein.

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Objectives: •> To assess the potential of forage legumes and concentrates (oats grain and noug seed cake ) In sheep fattening •> To assess the acceptability of the technology by the farmer

Materials and Methods A few selected forage legumes will be used for fattening In the first phase on on-farm, volunteer farmers will be selected for the on-farm experiment by the subject matter specialist and by the concerned researcher to be part and parcel of the research project. A farmer will be assigned only to one of the treatment group (control or supplement); this is in order to avoid the chance of giving forage legume to the control group, if enough number of sheep were not found In one farmer, other neighbour farmers who show interest to participate in the study will be Included. The number of sheep in any case should not be less than ten per treatment.

Treatment groups Croup I. Sheep supplemented with forage legumes %♦ Croup II. Sheep supplemented with concentrate mixture ( 550 g equal proportion of oats grain and noug seed cake) Croup III. Control Data to be collected ♦♦♦ initial weight weight of the sheep fortnightly **** Final weight Amount offered daily v Daily refusal Death and cause if there is any ♦♦♦ Disease treatment Fanners assessment

3. Title: Monitoring of the performance of A X M rams and lambs.

Materials and Methods Thirty Awassi X Menz crossbred rams, will be supplied peasant association in each wereda over a three-year period. One ram will be shared by a group of three neighbouring farmers who use common grazing sites and to ensure night time service the ram will be rotated among the fa rm e r The breeding rams are supplied free of charge but remain under the control of the project for efficient utilization of the scarce ram supply from sheep breeding and multiplication centres.

All ewes and lambs born will be identified by ear tags. Flocks will be monitored throughout the year by trained enumerators and supervised by experts on monthly basis. Performance evaluation will focus on crossbred ram and lambs. However, for comparison purposes lambs born of local rams will also be identified and similar data as for crossbred lambs will be collected.

Data will be collected by trained enumerators to be recruited in each locality and supervised through a monthly visit basis. Data on farm resources,

39 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000 reproduction, growth, management practice and offtake/disposal will be recorded formats.

4. Title: Epidemiological study on gastrointestinal nematodes and trem atodes

Background and Justification Ethiopia owns about 21.7 million sheep, over 75% of which indwell In the highlands (FAO, 1994). However, the productivity of sheep In the country is lower than for sub-Sahara Africa. The reasons for low sheep productivity include poor nutrition; diseases and poor genetic make up of the Indigenous stock. Among diseases helmlnthasls Is of considerable significance in a wide range of agro climatic zones in sub-Sahara Africa and consists one of the most important constraints to small ruminant production (ILCA, 1991; Over et al, 1992). Among important helminth parasites in the highlands, Fasciola hepatica, Dictyocanlns filaria, and Haemonchus contortus Is known to cause severe tissue damage and death of small ruminants.

The epidemiological study on these parasite species could help to understand their prevalence, severity and dynamism for appropriate strategic health Interventions with effective antl-helimentlcs thereby increasing sheep/goat productivity. Therefore, this project is designed to define the endoparasite prevalence dynamics and their effort on sheep population.

Materials and Methods Study area The study will be conducted in south wello around Gimba, an altitude ranging between 2600-36000 m above sea level. The study will be conducted on -farm using the sheep whose flocks of volunteer farmers. A total of 100 sheep whose age are below 1.5 years (with no permanent incisor teeth) from some five villages.

Sampling > Faecal samples will be collected on monthly intervals throughout the year or two. > Blood samples will also be collected from ear veins into capillary tubes for packed cell volume (PCV) determination from the same animals according to the above frequency and duration. Laboratory examinations Eggs per gram of faeces (EPG) will be determined using Mac Master Chamber. PCV will be determined after centrifugation and reading with reader or a ruler (Hansen & Perry, 1990). Sheno Research center will provide trainings in collection of samples and assist in analysing the samples Data analysis Data will be analysed using statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) computer software (sas, 199/J' or fpim-G software. Expected output > The epdimology of major gastro intestinal nematodes and trematodes will have been defined

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> Strategic antlhelmentic treatment for the control will have been recommended.

12.3. Honeybee Production undertaking on farm research with full participation of farmers in the management practices of Improved bee keeping as discussed during the first part of the travelling Seminar, would be very Important to mitigate their constraints on this sub -section

Thus, on farm study on the type of available bee keeping equipment, production system, management of honey bees & their products, development & conservation of honey source plants, etc are the major activities to be prioritized. The main area of study in this line Is:

1. The adaptability of honey bees to different bee hives (intermediate or Top Bar & modern or moveable frame type)

Data to be collected *■ Number of honeybee colony adapted after transferred to improved hives >• number of constructed / developed honey combs & occupied with brood and honey ► amount of harvested honey and beeswax per season / year/ hive. >- Number of honey bee colonies absconded during or after transferring in to the improved hives * during the dearth period /long dry /rainy season) >- Enemies or disease occurrence in each type of hive, and season of occurrence *• Durability & manageability or ease of operation of the hive

2. The adaptability of different honey bee forages (flowering plants) and determining their flowering period & duration.

>- Tyne of plant in the area ( Trees, bushes, herbs, weeds, etc) »- Local name of the plant >- Locality >■ Altitude >- Rain fall »- Performance of the plant as a seedling >- Duration of growth to flower >■ Time of flowering (season) >• Whether it is visited by honeybees or not *- Duration of flowering (for how much long oeriod of time) >- source of feed (Nectar and oi poiitiii buuices)

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There are some Indigenous potential honey source plants growing In the area which are not yet exploited (known) by the people of the area, so emphasis should be given on these & type of the honey plants that would be developed as a seedling In the nursery site should be selected from the Indigenous growing plant Is the area.

12.4. Cattle Production (Beef /Dairy)

Title: Testing alternative feed resourses for fattening old oxen.

Background: in most of the water shade areas farmers fatten their draft oxen at the end of their productive years for beef purposes. Farmers use available crop residues for fattening purposes. The objective of this trial is to demonestrate to farmers the use of crop residues and legume for fattening purposes.

Method The major roughage feed to be used in this trial can be crop residues (hay, maize stalk, te ff straw) In combination with legume hay or oilmeal by­ products (noug cake).

Ration Composition 60% Teff straw + 39% noug cake + 1% salt 60% Barley/maize stalk +30% noug cake + 9% luceana + 1% salt

Amount of ration to be fed 3% body wt - ( 6-7 kg of the ration per head /day ); plus water to be offered free choice. Or water the animals about two times per day. Duration - 90- 120 days Data to be collected > Condition of the animal at the beginning and end of the trial as judged by the farm (very lean, lean, medium, fat and very fat). > initial price of the animal (estimate made by group of farmers) > Final selling price of the animal > Total amount of feed used > Total feed cost (roughage and protien supplement) > Labour cost (estimate) > Net profit

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13.0. On-Station Research Proposal

13.1. Poultry Production

1. Evaluation of fish meal production methods Fish offal production from lake Haik Is available. Fish meal the best animal protein source that can be used for poultry feed production at the Kombolcha poultry BMC feed processing plant. Different drying / processing methods need to be tested on station to facilitate effective use of this resource.

2. Assessment of the feed resource base: > Assess Scavenging & supplementary feed resource base in different areas, situations > Evaluate and compile available conventional and non-conventional feed resources for rural poultry

3. Breed evaluation and development > undertake research on local breeds / types > On-station tests to identify superior genetic materials followed by selection > Conserve and protect local breeds / types as genetic resources for the future 13.2. Cattle Production (at Andassa)

Title: Comparative fatting studies using old oxen and young bulls (2-3 year).

Background Old oxen and young bulls can be fattened easily by using available feed recourses (straws, native hay and industrial by-products). Animals when fed balanced rations they gain w t easily and can be finished in 90 -120 days. Ethiopians like fatty meat, especially during the major holidays. Well finished animals fetch good price during these seasons. These public holidays are well distributed through out the year. in the crop / livestock mixed farming system of the water shade areas of the Amhara region fattening studies are important for on-farm research and extension package.

Objective > To improve the different locally available feed types for fattening purposes. > To test the response of old and young animals to different fattening ration > To test economic value of using different feeds and animal types for fattening purposes.

43 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000

Material and Methods Animals - Old draft oxen at the end of their productive years (preferably Fogera or young Fogera /native young bulls 2-3 years old). ingredients Diet Number 1 2 3 Teff straw 49 Native hay 49 Maize cobs 40 Noug cake 30 30 . 35 Ground Maize 20 10 Wheat middling 14 Salt 1 1 1

Number of animals in each diet group should not be less than six animals from each animal type. The trial can be 2 x 2 or 2 x 3 factorial design. Duration: 90-120 days Data to be collected: ♦ Average Initial wt ♦ Average final w t ♦ Average daily gain ♦ Daily feed intake ♦ initial animal purchase price ♦ Total feed consumed ♦ Final sell price ♦ Net profit

Title: Evaluation of milk composition of fogera cattle and their crosses with Friesian.

Background Generally indigenous cattle milk production is low in milk yield with high butter fat content. It is important to establish the butter fat content of the Fogera breed and their crosses with Friesian.

Objective > To test the milk composition of Fogera and their crosses > To test the milk yield of the Fogera and their crosses

Material and Methods Animals : Pure Fogera heifers of similar age, but born from different dams and sires. F1 crosses (Fogera x Friesian) heifers of similar age, but born from different dams and sires. For this trial as many as 10 animals from each genotype will be used . These animals will be used for at least two lactations Data to be collected > Milk yicid per cow per /day > Milk composition > Lactation length

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14.0. Short-term Trainings Proposal

14.1. Poultry Production

Extension officers generally only have limited knowledge In the field of poultry production and this knowledge is usually theoretical. There is, therefore, a need for practical training In poultry management and related Issues at various levels.

14.1.1. Poultry Subject m atter specialists (SMS)

The training at this level could be considered as "training of trainers". The training should be, as much as possible, practical and geared towards farmers' needs. The training at this level could be group training that may be arranged at one of the poultry research centres or at the Kombolcha poultry BMC for about one week. The training should, as much as possible, involve practical sessions under village conditions.

14.1.2. Training of development agents (DAs)

The training at this stage can be offered by the poultry sms. The training of the DA s should be an "on the job" type of training given on the basics of poultry health, husbandry, marketing etc. and also on the conduct of the poultry on-farm trials including PRA techniques.

14.1.3. Farmer training Training at the grassroots level of (women) farmers is an absolute prerequisite for successful development of the rural poultry sector. The training at this stage may be given by the trained DA s and conducted "on-site". It has to cover health, housing and nutrition. Poultry farmers should also be trained on disease husbandry and marketing. Community and group-based methods of training seem to be more effective. It is necessary to explore the value of mass events such as field days and social gatherings for training. Defining the target group & preparing extension materials that are simple, clear, timely and relevant to the target group & area makes the effort more fruitful, selecting suitable people who can use the training directly and can also disseminate information is important.

14.2. Small Ruminant Production

Training is a prerequisite for development. Training should be given to all actors who are involved in the project area . The training that will be given off course will be varied based on the trainees’ background and knowledge. fype of training. Feeding of sheep Health care of sheep Breeding system

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Level of training, subject matter specialist Development agent Farmers

14.2.1. Subject m atter specialist *1* Feed budgeting *** Feed requirement of sheep and goats *1* Selection methods of sheep and goats ♦> Basic endo-parasite/ strategic parasite control options *1* Major health constraints *1* An overview of respiratory disease in sheep **** Data value and handling

14.2.2. Development agent *1* Feed budget *1* Feed requirement of sheep and goats ♦> Pasture management for the control of internal parasitism ♦♦♦ Sheep management ♦t* Epidemology of endoparasites and Infectious diseases

14.2.3. Farmers ♦> Feed conservation methods ♦♦♦ Planting and utilizing of forage legumes **»* Sheep and goats management ♦> Pasture management for the control of internal parasitism *1* Drenching time **** Animal health service and interventions

Location: SMS & DA: Dessie Duration. Two weeks (at least)

14.3. Honeybee Production

Like other agriculture sub- sectors, bee-keebing activities also require improved technologies and sufficient knowledge of management to be fruit full. in this line, as discussed in the constraints of on-farm research with the water sh?de mgnanemep.t, shortage of knowledge (in adeouate skiu— in all aspects/at all level is the major bottle neck to undertake the appropriate honey bee management. This will directly affect the improvement of honeybee production as result of poor management.

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So, rendering training on the management of Improved bee keeping for the experts, technical assistance, development agents and the farmer beekeepers would be the paramount (vital) task of this on-farm research at water shade management program.

The training that has been offered to development workers, technicians and farmer beekeepers at Holeta Bee Research & Training Center has contributed a lot to wards promoting the development program. A couple of trainees from all regions of the country including this south wello zone of the Amhara region have participated on this different level of training held at Holleta. However, these trained man power are applying less effort toward the development of apiculture due to certain constraints among which In appropriate assignment, displacement/shifting of the experts, less attention (emphasis) given to this sub-section, poor resource allocation mentioned etc. are the major reasons to be mentioned. The above mentioned problems are also some how observed In this zone. The suggested solution to this problem would be: a. Rendering training for the development agents and farmer beekeepers on the farm sites for 10-15 consecutive days by the experts (Researchers) from Apiculture research program. b. Training one or two experts working on the on- farm research from the zone at Holeta Bee Research Centre for two months. The experts will be used as supervisor/coordinator/ or trainer of the on-farm research activities at the water shade management.

Type of bee keeping Short-term training and duration to be taken

NO. Level of training Location Duration Time/season of training 1 Technical Holeta Bee Two months octber- assistance/and Research Center December/ Expert (Diploma and April-Mid June above) 2 Beekeeping Holeta Bee One month Technicians (12"1 research/ complete) at the research of the region 3 Development agents On-farm 10-15 days and Farmers

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15.0. Monitoring and Evaluation

Development of a monitoring system forum Is very useful In order to collect and using these Information to assess the progress of the work., its purpose is to assist all the team members Involved In the project take appropriate decisions. The forum must also be a communication system, In which information flows in different directions between the tea members. The participation of team members collaborated to produce this report and any people from outside the team members who have a more objective view of the work will strengthen the discussion by providing technical expertise or experiences. The project manager can decide the time or frequency.

16.0. General Recommendation

16.1. issues of Drought Prone Areas

One of the sites visited by the team was Legambo wereda. The group has learned that recurrent drought is becoming a regular feature, it was also learned that repeated occurrence of drought and high variability in precipitation have reduced the ability of the farmers to respond to the stress. Looking to the eco-reglon, one can appreciate the complex environmental challenges of the area. The area is severely devoid of forest, steep slope about 30° slope and yet every part of the mountain is used for crop production. There is no sufficient grazing area for the livestock. Even some of the communal grazing area is not accessible during the rainy season due to water logging problems. The mainstay of feed resource is crop residue. Thus, any failure in crop production directly affects livestock productivity. The effect of current drought in this area is shown in Section 5. considering this and the increasing chances of drought in these areas, it is suggested that the Amhara Region has to develop with efficient implementation strategy of Land Use Policy * The team appreciates the complexity of the problem encountered at Dessie zurla and Legambo weredas and has concurred that attempts to maintain food security in this area is beyond the capabilities of the current on-farm research. It is imperative that professional inputs from different disciplines and sectors are required to design sustainable agriculture in this area. Thus, it is recommended to organize travelling workshop by inviting resource people for in-depth analysis of the biophysical and socio-economic of the farming system and bring recommendation domains.

16.2. Sustainable Forage Seed Production

Promotion of appropriate utilization of multipurpose trees, improved forages, seed production is mandatory for the region and nepd to be encouraged. It wds uusci vcu mac some of the trial sites nave considerable potential for seed production of important forages such as fodder beet and alfalfa. In fact, only few places are found conducive for the production of seeds of these forages.

48 Travelling Seminar Report, July 2000 it Is required to Identify sites, which have special niche for production of specific forage seeds. The selected sites with then be the primary source of basic seed production. However, the production of materials by these sites is not sufficient to meet the demand. Small-scale seed production by farmers is required in due course. The zone has a wide range of agro-ecological zones, which means an equally wide variety of Indigenous legume species. Collection of indigenous plant germplasms adapted to the different environmental challenges will have additional range of advantages

16.3. Focus on Agricultural Farm Implements

> improved tillage requires extra power. Appropriate farm equipments in relation to power output of the animals as well as the requirements of the soil are necessary, water logging is a common problem on vertisols and results in late sowing and lowered yields, use of oxen for the cultivation of vertisols has been tested under the Joint Vertisol Project, a collaborative undertaking among MOA, iar, Alemaya university of Agriculture, LRl and ICARDA. The project developed and tested an ox drawn 'Broad Bed Maker" for forming and shaping raised beds with deep furrows which, together with appropriate seeds and fertilizer, resulted In increased yields and farmer incomes. One of the sites was Ankober wereda. There is a need to undertake the adoption of this technology and its impact. Moreover, there is a need to provide adequate focus on use of farm implements for conservation tillage and terracing. > The group has visited individuals involved in processing of wool obtained from sheep for various purposes such as cloth, carpets, sweater, etc. This has to be supported by efficient implements to improve the quality of the product as well as decreasing labour cost, involving researchers in designing tools that will assist in postproduction is essential.

16.4. Coordination Among Team Members/centres

The research requires the integrations of diverse disciplines. Moreover, the working relationship and linkages between team members, centres and functions are also important and integral part, integration is a social process, which tends to harmonize and unify the diverse factors. There is a need to develop such effective linkages between the team members to undertake the designed research activities. Dissemination of information between the team members associated with the project has to be improved. This integration’s can be facilitated through > Clear-cut role definitions and role of assignments > Designating team members and leadership from each participating institution. Research centres can act as facilitator as well as backstopping for on-station research, valuable role in strengthening research capacity of the development workers. With this in mind, it is recommended that Sheno i?P<;rarrh rent-rr' si-ir:ka Research ccntre and Kombolcha Poultry centra play- active role in small ruminant, feed resource management and poultry research, respectively.