Abstract

GRUNWALDT, Eduardo Guillermo  and  GUEVARA, Juan Carlos. Profitability of the combined activity of post-weaning and feedlot of beef cattle in Mendoza Province, Argentina. Rev. Fac. Cienc. Agrar., Univ. Nac. Cuyo [online]. 2012, vol.44, n.2, pp.145-155. ISSN 1853-8665.

The economic feasibility of the post - weaning - feedlot of beef cattle was determined for the Mendoza Province. The hypothesis that the feedlot profitability can improve if this activity is integrated with the post-weaning was postulated. The analyzed alternatives were: a) surface irrigation and alfalfa roll preparation with contractor (alternative 1.1) or with own machinery (alternative 1.2) and b) irrigation by sprinkler with a cannon and alfalfa roll preparation with contractor (alternative 2.1) or with own machinery (alternative 2.2). Effective prices in April 2011 were used for valuing investments, operating costs and incomes. The number of annual animals necessary for reaching profitability in those alternatives, with and without receiving the provincial compensation was determined. The internal rate of return was estimated considering 12% as annual capital opportunity cost. The feedlot profitability improved when it was integrated with the post-weaning. The economic unit of the combined activity varied from 446 (alternative 1.1, with compensation) to 708 animals per year (alternative 2.2, without compensation). The equipment for alfalfa roll preparation and sprinkler irrigation provide direct benefits: autonomy for roll preparation and greater irrigation efficiency, and indirect benefits: additional incomes for the provision of services of roll preparation to third parties.

Keywords : Post-weaning; Feedlot; Livestock; Profitability; Beef cattle; Irrigation systems; Forage production.

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