Climate-smart agricultural practices: a case of dairy cooperative farmers in Agula and Maychew, Northern Ethiopia

This study examined the climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices of dairy farmers in Agula and Maychew, Northern Ethiopia. Data was collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) and questionnaires. The study explored farmers', implementation of three CSA practices - improved fodder, manure management, and replacement of unproductive cows. The determinants of CSA adoption were analyzed using a binary logistics model at significance levels of 1%, 5%, and 10%. Results showed that improved fodder was adopted by 60.1% in Agula and 18.2% in Maychew. The adoption of manure management (p = .229) and replacement of unproductive cows (p = .935) did not vary significantly. The replacement of unproductive cows had the highest adoption rate (45.9%). Improved fodder adoption was significantly higher among male-headed farms (p = .017). Manure management adoption was positively associated with gender (p = .034), number of cows (p = .081), and access to climate information (p = .063). Replacement of unproductive cows was associated with number of cows (p < .001), farm income (p = .049), and access to extension services (p = .006). FGDs revealed that farmers were able to perceive climate change and its effects on their dairy business. This study underscores the need for CSA practices to adapt to climate change impact on animals and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farms.