In a significant stride towards revolutionizing dairy farming in high-altitude regions, the Xizang Autonomous Region in southwest China has inaugurated a new Science and Technology Backyard (STB) dedicated to dairy cows. This initiative marks an innovative model tailored to the unique challenges of plateau farming.
Since 2023, China Agricultural University has been meticulously assessing cows and dairy farms in Lhasa's regional capital. The goal is to optimize feeding management strategies to enhance the productivity of dairy cows in Xizang's demanding environment.
The official approval for the establishment of the Xizang Chengguan plateau dairy cow STB was granted by the Ministry of Education at the end of 2023. By March, a team of scholars from China Agricultural University had relocated to the STB to spearhead this groundbreaking research.
Fang Qianhai, a representative from China Agricultural University, highlighted the challenges posed by Xizang's high altitude and harsh climate. \"Dairy cows in this region are prone to cerebral edema and pulmonary edema, which adversely affect their production performance,\" Fang explained.
In response to these challenges, the research team has developed an early warning system for altitude sickness and designed a portable wearable oxygen mask for cows. These innovations aim to mitigate health issues and boost dairy production efficiency.
The STB serves as a comprehensive science and technology service platform, integrating agricultural innovation, demonstration, promotion, and talent training. Positioned at the forefront of production lines in rural areas and enterprises, the STB is set to transform the dairy industry on the plateau, ensuring sustainable and enhanced dairy farming practices in Xizang.
Reference(s):
China's Xizang introduces novel research model for dairy cows
cgtn.com