Muğla launches newborn calf care project to reduce mortality

The Muğla Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry has launched the ‘Newborn Calf Care Project’ to reduce calf mortality and diarrhea cases. Funded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Muğla Governorate Investment Monitoring and Coordination Presidency, the project focuses on the critical first 24 hours following birth.

During the first phase, which runs from August 31 to September 11, 30 teams are operating across 13 districts in Muğla. The initiative provides free services including septicemia vaccinations, umbilical cord disinfection, and colostrum quality testing. Additionally, producers receive hands-on training regarding essential newborn care.

The project aims to progressively reduce calf mortality rates from current levels to 10%, then 5%, with a long-term global target of 1%. A dedicated hotline received 350 reports during the initial five days, of which 330 were valid calls addressed by field teams. A second phase of the project is planned for the spring of 2027.