Várzea Grande farmers trained in silage production for drought mitigation

Small-scale family farmers in the Sadia III community of Várzea Grande have received training in silage production techniques to ensure livestock feed availability during drought periods.

The training was conducted by the Municipal Secretariat of Environment and Sustainable Rural Development (SEMMADRS) in partnership with the Mato Grosso Research, Assistance, and Rural Extension Company (Empaer). During a demonstration at the property of producer Francisco Villas Boas, technicians showed how to use Capim-Açu and sugarcane to create silage. The process involves compacting the material in a mold, applying a plastic liner and inoculant to aid fermentation, which makes the feed ready for consumption in approximately 20 days.

Local officials stated that the initiative aims to provide practical solutions that farmers can apply directly on their properties to mitigate the impact of diminishing pastures during dry seasons.