Reproductive Technology Begins to Transform Dairy Farming in Southern Rio de Janeiro State

Bovine reproduction is gaining new momentum among dairy farmers in the regions of Volta Redonda and Valença, in southern Rio de Janeiro state. In April and June, the Instituto BioSistêmico (IBS) carried out the first two rounds of reproductive management visits under the Rio Mais Leite Project.

The visits include reproductive evaluation through ultrasound, pregnancy diagnosis, identification of reproductive disorders such as uterine infections and ovarian cysts, and, when indicated, application of the Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) protocol.

According to veterinarian Ariel Gomes, an IBS consultant and member of the project team, many of the farmers assisted had contact with these technologies for the first time. “Some farmers had never done an ultrasound or followed a protocol before. When we show them the exam on screen and explain how we evaluate each cow, they are amazed. After that, they become eager to receive more assistance and want to closely monitor the herd’s reproduction,” he says.

In addition to the technical component, the visits have a strong educational role. “We also provide guidance on corral management, milking hygiene, feeding, and the correct use of mineral and protein supplements. These are details that make a big difference in reproductive outcomes and overall herd health,” Ariel highlights.

From the first to the second visit, positive changes were already noticeable. “Farmers began to improve nutrition and use the right mineral supplements, which significantly helped with heat induction and pregnancy rates. Just from these initial actions, we saw cows getting pregnant that had not conceived in a long time,” he reports.

Lack of information and technical follow-up remains one of the major challenges on the farms. “Some cows go two or three years without calving, and the farmer doesn't even know the animal is open. This greatly increases the calving interval and compromises productivity. Our work helps change this reality,” the consultant explains.

About the Rio Mais Leite Project

Conceived and implemented by the Instituto BioSistêmico, the Rio Mais Leite project is funded by the Zoetis Foundation and focuses on developing dairy farming in 100 family-farming profile dairy properties in the municipalities of Valença and Volta Redonda, located in the southern region of Rio de Janeiro State.

The initiative involves technological assistance actions organized into four areas: best practices, reproductive management, nutritional management, sanitary management, and best practices in artisanal cheese processing.

The project uses the CheckMilk methodology, which includes a digital platform with a management system and a support app for technical teams and farmers, providing continuous support for farm operations.