REGION OF IMPLEMENTATION 

v. Lizavetin, Dzerzhinsky district, Minsk region

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TOPICS

Economic Development and Growth
Environmental Sustainability and Resource Management

CONTENTS OF THE ACTIVITY

• Raising and fattening goats . The farm specializes in raising Saanen goats, a breed from the Swiss Alps known for their high milk production.
• Processing of dairy products. At its own mini-factory, goat milk is processed into a variety of products, such as cheeses, cottage cheese and yogurt, which are sold through a network of large retailers in Belarus and its own delivery system.
• Entertainment services . Since 2017, the Koukoupolis agropark has been offering a wide range of entertainment services. Visitors can enjoy a corn maze, farm tours, train rides, a petting zoo, musical events and various food courts. These activities contribute to quality relaxation and immersion in rural life.
• Educational activities in the field of organic agriculture. The farm is actively involved in conducting seminars and master classes on organic agriculture aimed at disseminating knowledge among farmers and all interested parties.

The implementation strategy of the «DAK Goat Farm» is focused on sustainable development and integration of organic agriculture using innovative approaches.

KEY STEPS OF IMPLEMENTATION:

• Strategic vision. A deep understanding of the capabilities of the agricultural sector and faith in one’s own strengths made it possible to create a large farm practically from scratch.
• Choosing a narrow niche. Specialization in breeding highly productive breeds, in particular Saanen goats, characterized by a high level of milk production.
• Focus on organic farming. Commitment to organic farming methods that eliminate the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Compliance with environmental standards allowed us to minimize the negative impact on the environment.
• Investments in infrastructure . Construction and modernization of milking parlors, milk processing shops and other production facilities to increase the production of dairy products.
• Variety of products. Development of new types of dairy products and expansion of the existing range to meet consumer demand and enter new markets.
• Development of agroecotourism. Creation, expansion and improvement of the infrastructure of the Koukoupolis Agricultural Park to attract more visitors and raise awareness of the principles of organic farming and sustainable development.
• Educational activities. Organizing seminars, master classes and educational programs for farmers, students and all interested parties in order to spread knowledge about organic agriculture and its benefits.
• Innovation and technology. The introduction of modern techniques such as artificial insemination and embryo propagation to improve the health and population of the goat herd, as well as investment in an environmentally friendly hydroponic goat feed growing station, contribute to the sustainability of the farm.
• Marketing and sales. Active marketing strategy and development of our own retail system. Sales of products through networks of large retailers and search for new partnerships to expand sales channels.

One of the main challenges is maintaining high standards of organic production while scaling up operations. Therefore, «DAK Goat Farm» is constantly researching new methods and technologies to improve its activities.

RESULTS AND IMPACT OF THE INITIATIVE

“DAK Goat Farm” today is the largest goat breeding enterprise in Belarus, with more than 1,500 goats. Since 2021, a new farm has been operating for 1,600 heads, including 1,200 dairy goats, which allows not only to increase the volume of milk production, but also to improve its quality.

The initiative makes a significant contribution to the development of organic agriculture in the country. The farm became one of the first in Belarus to apply European standards of organic farming, cultivating 100 hectares of land without the use of chemicals.

Thanks to innovative methods and quality management strategies, the farm has increased production of goat milk and dairy products to more than 200 tons per year with processing capacity of up to 600 tons per year.

The capabilities of the hydroponic station make it possible to provide animals with high-quality green food all year round, with the potential of up to 3 tons of grain sprouts daily.

The constant increase in the product line, including various types of cheeses, cottage cheese, yoghurts, helps to widely satisfy consumer demand.

Actively attracting attention to the principles of organic agriculture through the activities of the KOUKUPOLIS agropark increases environmental awareness and promotes a healthy lifestyle among the population.

The creation of new jobs (18 with the prospect of increasing to 36) supports the local economy and contributes to the achievement of sustainable development goals.

Thus, the activities of the “DAK Goat Farm” have a positive impact not only on the agricultural sector, but also on society as a whole, contributing to economic growth, improvement of the environmental situation and the development of social infrastructure.

Information sources:

1. fermer1.by
2. ecaeja.by
3. agronews.com