Self-sufficiency in goat farming through green forage and triticale

Alain Chaigneau's 66-hectare organic goat farm in Vouvant, Vendée, produces 230,000 litres of milk annually with 280 Saanen does and 85 kids. The farm achieves 94% feed autonomy through diverse forage systems, including permanent grassland, red clover, maize, oats, and sorghum. Soil conditions limit alfalfa, but high stocking density (7–8 goats/ha) yields 8,500 litres/ha. Transition to green forage boosted milk yield and health but increased labour. Economic results show €279,600 revenue, €77,600 EBE (28%), and €33,200 available revenue. Costs are €173/1,000L for feed and €168 for mechanisation. Future plans include expanding feed autonomy and re-evaluating alfalfa.