Description
Four members of staff from IBERS, Aberystwyth University undertook a research visit to Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (UNALM); one of the most important higher education institutions in Peru. Prof Mariecia Fraser, Prof Jon Moorby, Iolo Davies and Eirian Richards spent a week discussing current and future research collaborations with animal and rangeland scientists from UNALM and partner organisations. The trip focussed on three key areas for development: i) benchmarking of livestock performance and greenhouse gas emissions, ii) sustainable improvement of grasslands, and iii) adoption of new technologies to support data-driven management decisions. The group travelled with UNALM staff to the edge of the Huascarán National Park to see farming systems in operation in the high country around the Andes and meet staff from the Instituto de Montaña and the Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Glaciares y Ecosistemas de Montaña working there. The pastures that animals graze in these areas are nutritionally very poor, and there is considerable scope to improve productivity and welfare by introducing carefully selected grasses and legumes into targeted enclosures. Grazing strategies to improve biodiversity and restore carbon-rich peatlands were also discussed. However, there are major challenges to overcome as regards resources and equipment available to support improving sustainability in these areas.| Period | 07 Dec 2024 → 14 Dec 2024 |
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| Visiting | National Agrarian University - La Molina, UNALM |
| Degree of Recognition | International |