82 A participatory approach to design monitoring indicators of production diseases in organic dairy farms (Research paper; Duval, 2016)

Significant Impact Group(s): Other
Species targeted: Dairy;
Age: Young;Adult;
Outcome Parameter(s): herd health indicators
Summary: The participatory approach used in these studies in France and Sweden led to the design of indicators that permit farmers to monitor simultaneously the major health and welfare indicators associated with production diseases in dairy cattle. The indicators were farm-specific, adapted to the farmer’s objectives, herd health situations and/or decision-making processes. Therefore, when designing decision support tools for farmers, scientists should not aim at ‘one-size fits all’ tools. The analysis of the discussions between farmers and advisors on the indicators revealed that scientists and farmers use herd health indicators differently. While scientists use indicators for between-herd comparisons, farmers are interested in within-herd comparisons. This participatory approach also created a dialogue between farmers and advisors, allowing advisors to understand animal health management as an integral part of the farm system and the farmer’s objectives. This understanding is crucial for advisors aiming to contribute to animal health planning activities of all farmers.
82 Research paper – Duval – 2016 – A participatory approach to design monitoring indicators of production diseases in organic dairy farms
Where to find the original material:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167587716301064; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.04.001
Country: FR; SE

82 Research paper – Duval – 2016 – A participatory approach to design monitoring indicators of production diseases in organic dairy farms