This week's stop for the ‘Science Café’ events organised by Uşak University was the village of Güre in central Uşak. At the event, academics met with villagers and shared important information about agriculture and animal husbandry.

At the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sibel Alapala from the Faculty of Agriculture at Uşak University discussed ‘Large and Small Ruminant Breeding and Related Issues,’ while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Osman Yüksel spoke on ‘The Importance of High-Quality Roughage in Animal Feeding, and the Effects of Burning Stubble on Soil and Agriculture.’ The meeting was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşen Melda Çolak.

The meeting began with an opening speech by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Lütfi Özav. Prof. Dr. Özav stated that Uşak University Rector Prof. Dr. Ekrem Savaş attaches great importance to science-public meetings and conveyed his greetings to all participants. He said, ‘Our events bring our scientists together with village residents according to the needs of our villages. We will continue these meetings on topics that our people need in the coming weeks.’

Feed Quality, Animal Selection and the Harmful Effects of Burning Stubble

In his talk titled ‘The Importance of High-Quality Roughage in Animal Feeding, the Effects of Burning Stubble on Soil and Agriculture,’ Assoc. Prof. Dr. Osman Yüksel explained in detail what roughage is, the importance of feed in animal husbandry, what high-quality feed should be like, and what to consider when planting feed. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yüksel stated, ‘Feed costs account for seventy percent of livestock farming expenses. Hay without animal feed is not a quality food source. According to international classification, feed containing more than 8% protein is considered high quality. The feed we produce is important in animal selection. We should select our animals based on the type of feed we can produce on our land.’

In the continuation of his speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yüksel also explained to the audience how much feed should be planted for animals through examples. 

Associate Professor Osman Yüksel drew attention to the following points regarding stubble burning, which causes serious damage to the soil and leads to large fires: "Although stubble burning may seem to make things easier for farmers in the short term, in the long term it causes serious damage to the soil, the environment and agricultural production. It reduces soil fertility due to the deterioration of the soil structure. Stubble burning leads to a loss of organic matter in the soil. Organic matter helps the soil retain water. When stubble is burned, this matter decreases, causing the soil to dry out more quickly. In dry soil, plant roots struggle to develop, and crop yields decrease. Beneficial insects and microorganisms are also destroyed, leading to increased use of chemical pesticides. Additionally, there is a risk of fire, loss of life, and property damage. Uncontrolled stubble fires can cause serious damage to fields, forests, homes, and living beings."

Important Considerations in Beef Cattle Farming

In her presentation titled ‘Large and Small Ruminant Farming and Its Challenges,’ Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sibel Alapala noted that the challenges in large ruminant farming can be categorised under headings such as livestock, feed, pasture use, production planning, farm size, grants, and subsidies, and offered recommendations for addressing these challenges.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Alapala also discussed dairy and beef cattle farming across the country in relation to cattle farming. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Alapala stated, "When raising cattle, productive breeds should be selected, artificial insemination should be promoted, and genetic recording systems should be established. Additionally, the production of high-quality roughage should be increased, and animals should be provided with a balanced diet of the nutrients they require. Furthermore, producers should enhance their skills by participating in training programmes on modern production techniques, feed preparation, milk extraction, and calf care."

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sibel Alapala touched upon topics of interest related to small ruminant (sheep and goat) farming.

Following the presentations, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Osman Yüksel and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sibel Alapala answered questions from the audience.

The event was concluded with Prof. Dr. Lütfi Özav, Vice Rector, thanking Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşen Melda Çolak, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Osman Yüksel, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sibel Alapala for their contributions to the meeting, and Secretary General Bülent Şahin presenting a certificate of appreciation to Hasan Öktem, the village headman of Güre Village.