Caracterização da produção leiteira de pequenas e médias propriedades rurais localizadas nos municípios de Uberlândia e Monte Alegre de Minas - MG

Abstract

This study aims to characterize dairy production on dairy farms in the municipalities of Uberlândia and Monte Alegre de Minas, emphasizing their differences and nuances. The increasing adoption of agricultural technologies requires rural sector professionals to be properly trained to take advantage of these innovations. While the use of technology is essential for increasing production and optimizing processes, communication and people management are crucial for productive success. The research involved structured interviews with 19 producers and 21 workers from dairy cattle farms located in Uberlândia and Monte Alegre de Minas, in the Triângulo Mineiro region. A standardized interview script was used, from which data were collected on dairy activity, characteristics of those involved, technology adoption, and aspects related to training and communication. Producers were classified into low, medium, and high production strata based on the average milk productivity per cow per day. Data analysis revealed notable differences in management among the strata. High-production producers stood out due to their frequent use of more advanced technologies, such as Fixed- Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) and the use of concentrate feed, and demonstrated more advanced computer skills, which facilitated more efficient financial management of their farms. In comparison, low-production farms showed less technology adoption and a broader employment structure, with fewer workers and a reduced need for training. The study highlights the challenges faced by workers, such as the need for diverse training and experience, and proposes guidelines to improve the efficiency and sustainability of management practices in dairy production, adapted to the specificities of each production stratum.