Possibilities for converting conventional cattle production to the organic model in the Grijalva River Basin, Mexico

Abstract

The possibilities for converting conventional cattle production to the organic model were evaluated in the Grijalva River Basin, Mexico, and possible interventions were identified. A multi-criteria organic livestock conversion index (OLCI) with 10 indicators comprising 35 variables was used. Information was obtained through participatory workshops, direct observation, and interviews to 91 farmers of 11 different communities in the municipalities of Mazapa de Madero (n = 17), Huitiupán (n = 30), and Tacotalpa (n = 44). Results show higher OLCI values in Mazapa (56.8%) and Tacotalpa (56.7%) than in Huitiupán (49.0%). The production units evaluated show: (i) limitations with respect to indicators ecological weed control in pastures and crops, veterinary prevention and treatment, food safety, and ecological management, and (ii) strengths to reach the organic standards are: feed management, sustainable pasture management, soil fertilization, ecological pest and disease control in pastures and crops, breeds and reproduction, and animal well-being. In order to revert the future scenario of conventional livestock production and to transition to organic cattle raising, it is necessary to: (1) train and advice farmers regarding ecological production techniques and management, principally with respect to the limitations pointed out, and (2) implement a policy for development of livestock raising with specific functional and structural changes.