Goat farming forage strategies in Occitania

Goat farming in Occitania, France, integrates temporary legume-rich pastures and rotational forage systems to boost milk yield and reduce concentrate use. Annual forage strategies include autumn-sown cereal-legume mixes and summer crops like sorghum, pearl millet, and clover. Despite challenges from drought and weeds, improved forage quality led to a 9% rise in milk production (538–593 L/gate) and 20% less concentrate feed (2018–2021). Hay analysis showed higher clover content (40%) and protein (PDIN 64–109 g/kg) in temporary pastures versus permanent ones, though energy values were slightly lower (UFL 0.64). Production costs rose from €1,754 to €1,965 per 1,000 L milk, but gross margins improved from €947 to €1,175 per goat. Ongoing challenges include delayed full productivity (expected 2023) due to poor 2021 establishment and plot loss by end-2023. The project highlights sustainable pasture management for small-scale goat farming profitability.