Growing Food: A Guide to Food Production

12. Livestock

blood as well as for transport and field cultivations?

supply, grazing?

3. What part do animals play in the economy of the area?
   Discuss with farmers, traders and local vets. Continually monitor market prices, and
   note which prices rise and which fall during periods of food shortage. Compare with
   prices in previous years when possible.


4. Other Agencies and NGOs

same or similar areas?

2. Which crop species, varieties, tools etc are they distributing, and why?
   Discuss with the other players involved their plans, past experience, problems etc.
   Inform all the relevant government and other agencies of your plans. Try to avoid
   duplication, and learn from the experience and mistakes of others.


3. Information Bank
   Is the information outlined above readily available for others to use?
   Establish agricultural files and reference material, preferably in one place such as your
   agency’s Head Office. Agricultural research stations can be a good source of up to date
   information and trends. Experienced local agriculturalists, college students etc. who can
   check and augment this information can also be invaluable in collecting, collating and
   providing data.

GROWING FOOD – THE FOOD PRODUCTION HANDBOOK 323

1. How important are animals for the families’ food production—for meat, milk and


2. What are the main problems associated with livestock, such as diseases, water


3. Are there any other aid agencies, NGOs or government agencies engaged in the

or ploughs may be a more appropriate response than providing seed or tools.

Sometimes providing assistance with, for example, vaccinations or providing oxen

By-products such as dung can be valuable, as compost/mulch/manure and/or fuel
and building.