Local forage development strategies based on beef cattle farmer's preferences

Indonesia has large potential resource of local forage. However, the utilization is limited. Therefore, a local feed resources particularly on forage development strategy is needed to determine the chosen feed sources based on the needs and preferences of beef cattle farmer. The research objectives were to determine beef cattle farmers' preferences in choosing forages for their livestock and to determine strategies for developing potential local forages based on beef cattle farmers' preferences. This research involved 106 beef cattle farmers in Kucur and Arjowilangun Villages, Malang Regency, East Java, who were selected purposively. Descriptive statistical analysis using cross tabulation was used in this study. The results revealed that the three main preferences of farmers in choosing forages were based on the level of cattle palatability, nutrient content, and forage productivity, respectively. The strategy of local feed development can be promoted by developing local feed sources that have a high level of palatability, nutrient content, and productivity.