Goats may be appealing, but very few goat farmers can make money from them. Dairy goats become economically viable only when annual milk production reaches at least 100 tonnes, which equates to around 120 to 180 dairy goats, depending on yield.
A recent Agroscope study highlights the potential of Highland cattle to control the spread of green alder and restore plant diversity on mountain pastures.
Grazing represents a sustainable option for rearing dairy male calves. Specifically, grazing strengthens immune function, while high-elevation pastures improve haemoglobin levels and red blood cell counts.