Mesquite pod utilization for livestock feed: An economic development alternative in central Mexico
Author
Silbert, Michele Sue, 1960-Issue Date
1988Keywords
Mesquite -- Economic aspects -- Mexico -- Matehuala Region.Animal feeding.
Union de Ejidos Productores de la Vaina del Mezquite 'Emiliano Zapata'.
Advisor
King, David A.
Metadata
Show full item recordPublisher
The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
In central Mexico's semi-arid highlands, mesquite (Prosopis spp.) pods are utilized for food and livestock feed. In 1975, a union of 53 rural communities opened a storage and processing facility for mesquite pods. A study of the operation and the regional collection, sales, and use of mesquite was conducted to evaluate the industry's potential. Twenty-six communities were visited, and formal interviews were held with 35 subsistence farmers, 12 mesquite feed dealers, eight large-scale ranchers, and members of the mesquite union. The effect of climatic factors on mesquite pod harvests was analyzed. The study examined opportunity costs for land and labor and the costs and returns of improvements to the operation. The mesquite facility has increased income production for rural farmers and provided a local source of nutritious livestock feed. Potential improvements to the industry include pest control, production of mixed feeds, improved management, and marketing. Similar operations could succeed in areas with dense mesquite woodlands, a history of pod collection and use, and a need for seasonal income production.Type
textThesis-Reproduction (electronic)
Degree Name
M.S.Degree Level
mastersDegree Program
Graduate CollegeRenewable Natural Resources