MANAGEMENT PRACTICES OF BACKYARD GOAT RAISERS IN SAN ESTEBAN, ILOCOS SUR, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study examined management practices, constraints, and factors influencing improved goat-raising practices among backyard goat raisers in San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Results showed that respondents were predominantly males, mostly married, and had primary to secondary education. Family members participated in daily routine operations, while formal training was limited, indicating gaps in technical knowledge and skills. Management practices remained largely traditional. Breed selection was based mainly on local availability, housing facilities were basic, and equipment was limited. Feeding relied heavily on natural forage, crop residues, and household kitchen scraps. Health management was inconsistent, particularly regarding deworming and veterinary services. Major challenges included recurrent diseases, inadequate quality feeds and breeding stock, limited capital, and insufficient technical support. Statistical analysis revealed significant positive relationships between educational attainment, years of experience, training exposure, household involvement, and selected management practices. Raisers with higher education, longer experience, and training were more likely to apply improved production, feeding, and health-care practices. Findings underscore the need for capacity-building, veterinary services, improved inputs and breeding resources, and infrastructure to strengthen productivity, sustainability, and resilience of backyard goat enterprises.