Technical assistance program for developing small dairy farms in Valença, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and the Southern Fluminense region

Abstract

The milk production chain has undergone major transformations in the 1990s, due to end of regulation in the sector, regional trade integration, capital internationalization, implying the expansion of transnational participation in the dairy industry, among others. These factors have exposed, particularly, the low technical efficiency and quality levels in this chain, demonstrating the need for actions to improve and interconnect its links. This research analyzes the abandonment condition that milk producing family organizations have faced in Brazil, given the lack of rural technical assistance in the recent history of the country and, therefore, the dilemma faced by the small farmer who seeks rural outreach, before the collapse of public outreach actions and the expensive private outreach system. Field research was conducted in Valença, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and the southern Fluminense region and it discusses the feasibility of a technical assistance and management program created by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA, Southeast section) and practiced by the Brazilian National Rural Training Service (SENAR, Rio de Janeiro), a parastatal organization maintained through financial, material, and human resources obtained by private contribution from the Rio de Janeiro region. The results highlight the need for a system of partnerships that generates benefits and creates a local network for developing the region.