This is a great question, because I have been working with a team looking at dairy production globally 50 years in the future. My thoughts are as follow: Adoption of any technologies first require a change in traditional cultures that may not be optimum. Maybe the feeds are poorly digestible because of varieties, planting, and growing practices, age at harvest or method of utilization or storage. Using practices that are proven effective for the region or similar regions globally are important. One cannot simply move a practice from one region to another without understanding the cultures and how they adopt practices. Another important issue is to ensure that the breeds of ruminants being fed are capable of responding positively within their environment and ecosystem. One cannot simply move sheep, goats, cattle or buffaloes from one region to another without understanding the resources that are available to feed and mange the imported animals. As I look at the globe, there are about 4 to 6 climatic types that are similar, but these are spread among several continents. I believe that it would be beneficial to build partnerships among farmers and agriculturists among these climatic type areas and then collaborate on exchanging information and technologies. Clearly there is a need for agricultural intensification in many regions to feed the growing populations. That is where groups can collaborate and help move ahead. Thank you for this very important question.

Thank you Prof Britt for your contribution.

To improve digestibility we need to improve the forages or pastures with legumes. Gene mapping and cloning must be done. There is need for germplasm management