Production of Manure and Whey Biol to Measure Pasture Productivity with a CSL Approach in Gonzanamá Canton

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of biomineralized organic biol which is derived from whey and manure, on pasture productivity under a climate-smart livestock (CSL) approach. Conducted in Gonzanamá, Ecuador, at Max Bravo Landacay's farm. The experiment used a randomized block design with four treatments: 10%, 20%, and 30% whey biol, and a control group without biol. Forage productivity was measured in kg/m² before and after application. The results revealed that 30% whey biol achieved a productivity of 2.12 kg/m², surpassing 30% manure biol, which reached 1.82 kg/m². Cost analysis showed that whey biol had an implementation cost of $459 per hectare, while manure biol cost $450, indicating that whey offers a better cost-benefit ratio due to its higher productivity. The study concludes that both biols are effective in increasing pasture productivity, contributing to agricultural sustainability and promoting CSA practices. The use of bioinputs such as biol is presented as a viable alternative to improve forage production sustainably.