Abstract

The lack of adequate information on livestock feed basis, feed balance, and quality parameters of major feeds is a critical livestock production constraint in the South Ari district. This study was conducted to identify the livestock feed basis, feed balance, and quality parameters of major feeds. Two Kebeles from the South Ari district were selected based on the local experience in livestock feed production and potential availability of diversified livestock feeds. One focus group discussion (FGD) per Kebele, which comprised 25 livestock keepers, was established with the aid of Kebele experts and local administrative bodies. The respondents were asked about the major livestock feed bases, livestock feed categories, and purpose of feeding values. After conducting FGDs, all FGDs members collected samples of major livestock feed that were listed during the FGDs and the samples were quantified for quality parameters. The results from the present study elucidated that there were 20 herbaceous and 16 browse forage species identified as livestock feeds. The estimated total dry matter required for livestock species per year was 857, 307 tons and produced was 115, 857.6 tons per year. The feed balance calculation showed that total deficits of 789, 427.9 tons of dry matter per year. The ash and crude protein contents of herbaceous species ranged from 38.6-315g kg^-1, DM to 44.3-224.5g kg^-1, DM, respectively, while they ranged from 97-330g kg^-1, DM to 104-222 g kg^-1, DM for browse species. Based on results from this study it was suggested that the primary emphasis is need to be improving the livestock feed basis through introducing productive improved forage species, improving poor quality-feeds and enhancing the utilization of indigenous forage species as protein supplements.