Development potential of Beef Cattle under the Coconut Trees in east Bolangitang district Regency of North Bolaang Mongondow

Abstract

Farmers in East Bolangitang District, Indonesia were trying to increase beef cattle population as a source of their income, but the problem was the lack of feed caused by cattle being cultivated on agricultural land. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential for land development under coconut trees for forage. The research method used was a survey method, with the determination of the location was by purposive sampling, namely three villages that have the largest cattle population. The data collected was primary and secondary data with the type of data was cross section and time series. Respondents were determined by purposive sampling, namely 40 farmers who use land under coconut. Analysis of the data used descriptive analysis. Coconut area was 0.2-2 Ha or the average was 0.94 Ha. 35 percent ownership status by farmers and 65 percent farmers as tenants. Beef cattle ownership was 148 or 2-6 cattle per farmer. Feed consumption per head per day consisted of 6.21 kg of grass, 10.40 kg of corn waste and 6.26 kg of rice waste. Forage production for 0.94 Ha can be utilized by 8.83 ST. In conclusion, coconut land in the study area has the potential to be used as a forage development. Need for socialization for farmers to introduce quality forage.