Structural Characteristics of Small Ruminant Production in Muş, Türkiye: A Model for Organic Livestock on the Basis of Sustainability

Small ruminant farming enterprises in eastern Türkiye have the potential to establish a sustainable model for organic livestock production but face structural challenges. This study aimed to develop an organic livestock model based on sustainability by examining the socio-demographic characteristics, management practices, and perceptions regarding animal health and the welfare of small ruminant farmers in the eastern province of Muş, Türkiye. A face-to-face survey was conducted with 364 randomly selected farmers, assessing parameters such as animal genotype, pasture conditions, forage cultivation, chemical fertilizer and pesticide use, nutrition, reproduction, health services, and shelter conditions. Results showed that small ruminants in Muş were well adapted to local conditions and were disease-resistant. They were fed with forage grown without chemicals and had unlimited outdoor and pasture access. The production process avoided hormones, antibiotics, and growth promoters, with reproduction occurring through natural mating. Challenges included inadequate pasture productivity, insufficient animal welfare conditions, low record-keeping rates, lack of effective organization, and insufficient awareness of organic practices among farmers. Notably, 81.9% of farmers described their pasture quality as moderate or poor, while 63.2% stated that they had no knowledge of organic practices. In conclusion, the Muş model offered concepts that could aid the transition to organic livestock farming and support sustainable extensive small ruminant farming globally. Farmers should be educated, informed, and organized, with support throughout the supply and marketing processes.