Ukrainian Dairy Farm on the Frontline: Navigating Challenges Amidst War
Source: The DairyNews
Promin Agricultural LLC, one of Ukraine's largest dairy farms situated just 60km from the Russian war frontline, faces an array of daily challenges as it strives to operate under constant shelling and war-related disruptions.
Directed by Serhiy Yasevin, Promin Agricultural LLC operates in the Mykolaiv region, running a substantial herd of 8,600 Holstein dairy cattle, including 3,360 milking cows. Despite the ongoing war, the farm manages a daily milk production of 125 tonnes at 3.15% protein and 3.5% butterfat, overcoming obstacles with resilience and strategic measures.
The dairy enterprise, which started with 50 cows in 2004, now utilizes two rotary milking parlours for thrice-daily milking. Serhiy notes the farm's recent expansion, including a new barn built in 2022 with advanced ventilation systems and automated solid manure separators.
Breeding strategies involve partnerships with Semex and Alta Genetics, focusing on productivity, fertility, and health. Notably, 75% of cows and heifers are inseminated with sexed semen, contributing to the farm's renowned reputation for breeding quality heifers.
In the face of war-related challenges affecting the supply chain, Promin dairy farm continues its operations with the help of generators, fuel reserves, and dedicated trucks. The farm's strategic decisions, such as reducing feed wastage and mobilizing staff for supply runs to acquire veterinary supplies, highlight its adaptability during turbulent times.
However, the war's impact on the agricultural sector, particularly the supply chain and availability of veterinary medicine, poses ongoing challenges. With a focus on sustainability, the farm is exploring future plans, including the possibility of building a biogas plant to generate energy from manure.
The pressing issues faced by Promin Agricultural LLC include finding markets for surplus grain, a shortage of labor due to mobilization, and the escalating cost of electricity. Despite the challenges, the farm remains resilient, adapting its workforce recruitment strategies and exploring innovative solutions for sustainable energy production.
Serhiy emphasizes the farm's commitment to overcoming adversities, stating, "The biggest challenge now is the war and the intensifying attacks on energy infrastructure and agricultural facilities. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure the continuity of our operations and contribute to the agricultural resilience of Ukraine."
The dairy enterprise, which started with 50 cows in 2004, now utilizes two rotary milking parlours for thrice-daily milking. Serhiy notes the farm's recent expansion, including a new barn built in 2022 with advanced ventilation systems and automated solid manure separators.
Breeding strategies involve partnerships with Semex and Alta Genetics, focusing on productivity, fertility, and health. Notably, 75% of cows and heifers are inseminated with sexed semen, contributing to the farm's renowned reputation for breeding quality heifers.
In the face of war-related challenges affecting the supply chain, Promin dairy farm continues its operations with the help of generators, fuel reserves, and dedicated trucks. The farm's strategic decisions, such as reducing feed wastage and mobilizing staff for supply runs to acquire veterinary supplies, highlight its adaptability during turbulent times.
However, the war's impact on the agricultural sector, particularly the supply chain and availability of veterinary medicine, poses ongoing challenges. With a focus on sustainability, the farm is exploring future plans, including the possibility of building a biogas plant to generate energy from manure.
The pressing issues faced by Promin Agricultural LLC include finding markets for surplus grain, a shortage of labor due to mobilization, and the escalating cost of electricity. Despite the challenges, the farm remains resilient, adapting its workforce recruitment strategies and exploring innovative solutions for sustainable energy production.
Serhiy emphasizes the farm's commitment to overcoming adversities, stating, "The biggest challenge now is the war and the intensifying attacks on energy infrastructure and agricultural facilities. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure the continuity of our operations and contribute to the agricultural resilience of Ukraine."
