Factors Influencing Productivity and Sustainability of Small-Scale Beef Farms in Thailand

Abstract

Over the past few decades, Thailand has witnessed a decline in production from small-scale beef cattle farming, accompanied by a reduced interest from younger generations in continuing family farming. The present study aimed to determine the state of these farms based on good agricultural practices (GAP) and explored factors influencing beef herd productivity and the willingness of the next generation to sustain the family business. Data from 1,175 questionnaires from 34 provinces was analyzed using SPSS. Beef herds with higher calving rates (CR ≥ 60%) had better herd, reproductive, and health management scores compared with the lower CR (<60%) group. Results from a negative binomial regression showed that factors, i.e., prediction of calving date and routine deworming positively impacted CR, while others like feeding types, mineral supplements, vaccination and hormonal estrus synchronization negatively correlated with CR. Expert opinions (N = 83) highlighted the importance of recording systems, heat detection programs, pregnancy diagnosis, feeding type, sufficient qualified water supply and mineral supplements. The use of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and GLM analysis also noted that farm potential score, farmer gender, and occupations were pivotal for the sustainability of beef farming. This research aids in strategizing for enhanced sustainable beef production in Thailand.