Baza danych projektów PROW
Reconstruction of a Cowshed for Welfare-Friendly Beef Production
Summary
This farm modernisation project aimed to improve the viability of agricultural employment in a remote mountain village and involved the construction of a new cow shed to improve animal-welfare standards for a suckler herd of beef cattle.
Background
The profitability of beef production is low and the Agrofyto Farm enterprise needed to expand and diversify into the production of suckler calves to remain viable in the mountainous district of Vsetin. Reconstruction and expansion of an existing cowshed to free-housing increases the potential for greater turnover and profit from the farm. This expansion complements an earlier investment in milk production facilities for dairy cows.
Objective
The main objective of the project focused on developing the farm’s potential for greater turnover and profit, plus securing employment in the remote rural area. EAFRD support was provided under measure 121 (modernisation of agricultural holdings) with the specific objective of reconstructing and converting the existing cow shed into a higher-capacity, free-standing barn suitable for setting-up a suckler calf production system.
Main activities
Main project activities with EAFRD support were: a) business development planning; b) preparation and submission of the application for funding using contracted advisory services; c) demolishing the existing shed and removal of rubble; d) preparation for construction of the new barn (ground works and procurement of materials), and; e) construction and fitting-out of the new barn. The largest part of the costs (over 80%) were associated with construction.
Results & Benefits
The tangible benefits achieved by the investment in modernisation of the building were: i) expansion of capacity to 148 standing places for beef suckler cows (increase of 30) and 133 places for suckler calves; ii) a decline in the cow death rate by 2% (3 cows) per year equivalent to an annual saving of €1 730; iii) increased production income of €17,300 per year from cattle sales; iv) achievement of animal welfare standards, and; v) securing jobs for 19 employees.
Lessons learnt
Higher welfare standards can provide competitive advantages for livestock producers. Compliance with EU standards allows access to a wider market place and also offers opportunities to attract possible premium prices from consumers willing to pay for branded welfare-friendly products. Having a clear business plan is essential for expansion of any enterprise and this plan should take account of all internal and external factors.
Project location and other information
Zlin region, Vsetin district, Czech Republic
Region
Zlinsky kraj
RDP Territory
Czech Republic
Total project cost (€)
338 000
EAFRD contribution (€)
104 600
National contribution (€)
34 900
Private contribution (€)
198 500
Project website
Contact name
Lumila Mužikovská
Telephone
+420 603 278 735
Languages for contact
Czech
At a glance
Country
Czech Republic
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
18/12/2007
End Date:
15/03/2010
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
121. Modernisation of agricultural holdings
Keywords:
Animal welfare, Cattle, Employment, Mountain area, Farm buildings
Last update
12/02/2012