Characterization of goat production systems in the North Huetar Region of Costa Rica using multivariate statistical techniques

Abstract

The objective of the research was to characterize and classify the goat production systems of the North Huetar region of Costa Rica. The information used came from the VI National Agricultural Census 2014, and data from 469 goat production systems were selected. The productive systems were characterized and classified using multivariate statistical analysis based on productive, social and economic variables. Two clusters or conglomerates were determined in the region. Cluster I is made up of extensive subsistence grazing farms and it represents 94% of the farms. They have less than 20 animals and use grazing as their main production system, feeding on natural pastures, hay and molasses, and they market their products mainly on the farm. The farms of conglomerate II correspond to intensive stabled systems with more than 20 animals per farm. The animals are fed based on grasses and cut-and-carry fodder, although with the presence of natural grass to a lesser degree; they also use hay and molasses. The sale of the products also occurs on the farm, although a higher proportion of products are sold to the agroindustry, as compared to cluster I.