Examination of Structural Characteristics and Biosecurity of Sheep Farms in Niğde Province

Abstract

The aim was to examine the structural features and biosecurity practices of sheep farms operating in Niğde province. For this purpose, 75 farms operating in the region were classified according to size (number of animals) and production system (extensive and intensive) and, they were compared in terms of typology and biosafety. In this context, a face-to-face survey was conducted with the owners or authorized persons of the small, medium and large size farms and the data collected from the farms about technical, sanitation-hygiene and health protection were comparatively presented. According to the findings obtained from the study, manure and wastes produced in 24% of farms were seen randomly throwing into the environment, and the differences observed between farms depending on the farm size were found significant (P<0.05). These farms can become a potential source of environmental and odor pollution. In addition, it was determined that disinfection was not applied to a large extent (97.30%) as a preventive measure at farm and shelter entrances (P>0.05). At the end of the study, it has been concluded that the typology and biosafety practices could be an important support for future strategic programs against disease and other factors which affects the production of the Niğde region.