10 pages, By-products like sawdust and straw are applied in compost bedded-pack barns (CBP) for cattle. These materials, which are gradually mixed with excreta and undergo a composting process, serve as a lying bed for the cattle. This study aims to assess the perception of consumers and farmers regarding the use of CBP during the grazing season of cattle for raising other animals or for growing food crops. This was examined by combining surveys with consumers from eight European countries and cattle farmers, focus groups with consumers, and in-depth interviews with individual farmers who implemented alternative uses of compost. The results showed that farmers preferred the compost bedded-pack system to the cubicle system in terms of sustainability and market aspects, although the cost of the bedding material required for CBP was seen as a significant negative aspect. Around half of all consumers indicated that the compost can be used for non-edible products and 26% indicated the compost can be used for raising other animals. Furthermore, 5% of consumers felt that compost should not be used for any other purpose. There were statistically significant differences between countries; therefore, regional specificities should be taken into account when marketing products from compost in CBP barns.
Graduate student, University of Wisconsin, studied whether direct mail announcement of publications is an effective way of getting "new customers" for extension work. Results suggested that 10-15 percent of Wisconsin farmers respond to direct mail announcements of extension publications. Of those who answered, 45 percent had never seen or used extension publications before receiving a direct mail announcement.
February 5 issue via online. 3 pages., Describes the addition as a way for editors and advertisers to connect with corn and soybean growers, in particular, during the growing season.
Posted at www.agrimarketing.com, Article in "A salute to NAMA on its 50th," special supplement featuring the 50th anniversary of the National Agri-Marketing Association.
