酪農経営における地域を挙げた哺乳・育成管理向上の試み

The increasing number of outbreaks of infectious diseases on dairy farms has become a serious problem in recent years. When such a case happens, each farm has to take various measures under administrative guidance. However, usually this guidance is implemented at the postvention, not prevention, stage. The main aim of this study is to identify key points and challenges using the example of Shibecha Town's efforts to ensure adequate safeguards against infectious diseases in dairy cattle.<BR>First, a Shibecha domestic animal infectious disease quarantine committee was formed with members from all sides: town officials, co-operative officials, extension officials, veterinarians from the mutual aid association, livestock hygiene centre, DHI association officials, and dairy plants officials. They plan and provide a precise vaccination programme as well as preventative testing for specific infectious diseases in the bulk milk tank. Second, the committee focused on how to improve the quality of liquid feeds such as colostrum, non-saleable milk and fermented colostrum through pasteurisation to inactivate viruses and pathogens.<BR>The distinctive features of Shibecha's initiatives are reflected in having the highest number of cattle vaccinated and lowest mortality rates in the region. To consolidate this progress, human resource development for both committee and farmers is needed. Also more sharing of information, leading to a closer relationship between the committee and farmers.