Bitter Cassava for a Sweet Milk: Bulletin n° 11, January 2020

On January 23rd, 53 producers from the department of Córdoba met at Colanta's Milk Processing Plant in the municipality of Planeta Rica to receive training and information on agronomic management and cost structure. The meeting aimed to generate income for the producers' families through a licit economy. The dry season significantly affects dairy producers' productivity in Colombia, as reduced rainfall leads to less pasture availability and lower milk production. Traditionally, dairy farmers use the Kikuyo variety as feed for livestock, but this forage grass is severely affected by drought. The Pastures Renovation service implemented by the Alliance helps dairy producers improve the Kikuyo's behavior and diversify their pasture options by introducing Rye Grass, which has better nutritional content and more tolerance to drought. The Bitter Cassava for a Sweet Milk Alliance has also facilitated the purchase of cassava by Colanta's Plant in the municipality of Itagui. This purchase generated an income of 165 million pesos (USD $51,000) for the farming families of the associations, including the National Association of Cassava Producers (ANPY) and the Association of Producers and Marketers of cassava from El Mamón (ASOPROCOYUMA). The alliance has enabled the processing and delivery of 220 additional tons of dried cassava by producers from the Sucre department. The municipality of Planeta Rica in Córdoba has become a milk and cassava territory, with the Bitter Cassava for a Sweet Milk Alliance playing a key role in promoting the cultivation and use of industrial cassava in the dairy industry. The alliance's efforts have improved the livelihoods of dairy producers and their families, while also contributing to the development of the local economy. The Pastures Renovation service has been instrumental in helping dairy producers adapt to the dry season by introducing more resilient and nutritious pasture options. This has not only improved milk production but also reduced the economic impact of drought on dairy farmers. The alliance's work has demonstrated the potential of industrial cassava as a valuable crop for the dairy industry in Colombia.