Keeping dairy cows healthy in organic farms

Existing health management strategies fail to take into account multifactorial, varying and highly complex causes that affect the health of dairy cows on individual farms. What is more, measures are carried out in vastly different ways, leading to inconsistent treatment and unreliable results. A systemic approach is needed in order to deliver appropriate measures, and successful treatments.

Thanks to EU funding, the IMPRO project is developing diagnostic tools to improve management practices and the effectiveness of alternative treatment for cows in organic dairy herds. To achieve this, the project is using a multidisciplinary approach to address scientific challenges concerning animal health and management procedures on the farm at different levels.

During the first reporting period researchers developed a diagnostic tool that farmers and their consultants can use to determine health conditions on a farm and support the selection of measures to improve animal health. It was then implemented in 218 organic farming systems in Germany, Spain, France and Sweden. The project team also examined whether the tool had any effect on farmers' attitudes and management practices.

Project members developed new protocols for monitoring cow and herd health and preventing disease in organic systems. The protocols were piloted in 40 farms in France and Sweden to establish whether they improve health and are suitable for farmers, consultants and veterinarians.

By shedding light on animal health, IMPRO is working towards innovative and effective health management solutions for organic farming systems. Farmers, health regulatory authorities and consumers should all benefit from healthy dairy cows.