Grain mixtures and forage quality in goat dairy farming

Cost developments and feed autonomy improvements in a goat dairy farm from 2018 to 2022, supported by EU and regional funding. Production costs per 1,000 litres rose 38% due to investments in on-farm feed production, barn drying, and machinery, yet gross margins improved to €461 per litre by 2021. By 2022, the farm achieved 92% roughage, 48% protein, and 16% concentrate autonomy through a Farm Feed Facility enabling flexible, on-farm feed use. Pasture management was enhanced with legumes and autumn growth, reducing reliance on maize silage. Adaptive practices aligned with EU rural development goals. Funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and Occitanie Agit.