Locally adapted multi-species pastures for improved goat milk production

A 68.63-hectare goat farm in the Lot, France, implemented a 2018 project to enhance multi-species pastures and prairie autonomy, co-financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. The farm increased forage autonomy from 58% to 59% overall and 74% for forages by 2021, replacing alfalfa with sainfoin in pasture mixtures and expanding temporary prairies. Milk output per goat rose from 800 kg to 821 kg, concentrate use decreased, and forage protein improved. Despite challenges from dry summers and pandemic disruptions, the project achieved stronger forage quality and sustained production gains, supported by soil-plant analysis and advisory input.