Intensification of Cattle Production Systems in Central America: Why and When

Abstract

The role of cattle in Central America, particularly dual purpose cattle, is considered in the context of economic and social problems. Rapid urbanization and slow rural growth lead to a need for reevaluation of the extent to which commercial dairy operations and high producing dairy breeds, in particular, should be promoted. Evaluation of feed efficiency, concern for the environment, and economic considerations lead to emphasis on high producing dairy cows. © 1993, American Dairy Science Association. All rights reserved.