212-431 Extensive Animal Production

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Objectives:

For students who wish to specialise in animal science subjects, this course provides a detailed understanding of production systems using ruminant animals in dairy, meat and fibre production. On completion of this subject students should be aware of all the significant inputs & products of extensive animal production systems, those factors that determine product quality, the effects of changes in the inputs/outputs on the efficiency of the system and the significance of the export orientation of these industries. They should be capable of the detailed analysis of a production system. They should also be aware of the ethical and environmental issues associated with grazing animal production systems.

Content:

Size, distribution & value of the animal industries. Environmental effects on animal production. Constraints imposed on nature of products, timing of inputs and outputs by regional and seasonal environmental factors. Breed selection for differing products and environments. Pasture management, supplementary feeding and intensification of feeding practices for reproduction, growth and wool production. Optimisation of reproductive output. Management regimes to maintain animal health. Maximisation of product output & quality. Analysis of production systems & consideration of alternatives. Local and international marketing & markets.

Assessment:

Prescribed Texts:

• Alexander G. & Williams O.B., Pastoral Industries of Australia, Sydney Uni. Press.
• Cottle. D.J., Australian Sheep & Wool Handbook, Inkata Press.
• Morley F.H.W., Merinos, Money & Management, Post-Grad C'tee. Vet Sci., University of Sydney.
• Schmidt P.J. & Yeates N.T.M., Beef Cattle Production, Butterworths.