LIVESTOCK PRODUCTIVITY ASSESSMENT AND MODELING

Individual production traits, such as reproduction and mortality rates, are partial, but readily estimated, measures of performance, which may be utilized in 'herd growth models' to predict potential offtake and changes in herd size and structure. Such models are readily constructed using a spreadsheet package or simple purpose-built computer programmes, such as LPEC Livestock productivity assessment requires the use of a steady-state (stationary) herd model. The output thus derived is then presented on a per livestock unit basis to measure productivity. These are not optimizing models but they do provide a useful method for estimating average productive performance, even for small household herds of cattle or flocks of sheep and goats.