Integrated Livestock Farm
Raising cattle in the tropics is challenging, which is why EARTH University is dedicated to identifying practices to make animal husbandry sustainable and environmentally friendly
The livestock farm on campus offers students and visitors the opportunity to learn first hand about management practices that integrate available resources on the farm and increase the chance for economic sustainability as well as balanced interaction with the environment.
This farm is dedicated to swine production and cattle adapted specially to the tropics. The farm also includes a dairy, which is an integral part of the university as the milk is used to produce yogurt and cheese. An important component of this process is the careful treatment of animal waste which is transformed into biogas through a system of biodigestors that supply an electrical generator.
By participating in these activities, interns will have the chance to gain experience in:
- Animal nutrition
- Management of local forages and pasture
- Animal welfare practices
Other interesting projects on the livestock farm include:
- Raising water buffalos and sheep
- Recycling and reduction of waste products
- Water decontamination through different technologies used in the farm
- Elaboration of organic fertilizers such as bokashi, a fermented form of compost made out of animal waste, and vermicompost that results from utilizing worms
Internships always involve a hands-on experience and close interaction in field activities with students as well as fieldworkers.
The length of these internships will vary depending on the goals of the applicants. The interns will have the opportunity to propose the plan of activities depending upon their interest and the availability of a supervisor willing to provide guidance.
