27 Genetic Sustainability and Biodiversity: Challenges to the California Dairy Industry

摘要

Issues and challenges related to the California dairy industry are examined in this chapter. This industry is a prime example of a very productive animal production system that has rapidly evolved in the Central Valley of California. The Central Valley, with its favorable climate, expanse of land for crop production, and proximity to agricultural byproducts that are fed to cattle, has favored the enormous success of this industry. However, there are many challenges facing California dairy productivity that will need to be addressed in the near future. The focus of this discussion will be on issues related to production efficiency, biodiversity, and breeding in the dairy animal population.