Technical Assessment Guides First Steps of the Rio Mais Leite Project

Detailed farm assessments and individualized action plans help producers advance in the adoption of good practices.

Mapping challenges, identifying opportunities, and providing technical guidance to farmers were the main goals of the good practices assessment conducted in March by the Instituto BioSistêmico (IBS) on farms participating in the Rio Mais Leite Project. This stage marked the beginning of the project’s technical support in southern Rio de Janeiro state, using the CheckMilk tool to evaluate compliance with good practices in dairy farming.

Based on the detailed data collected in the field, the team developed personalized action plans focusing on the continuous improvement of sanitary conditions, milk quality, and herd productivity. “This initial visit is essential for understanding the reality of each farm and, together with the producer, defining which changes are most urgent and feasible,” explains veterinarian Isabelle Aiello, IBS consultant and member of the project team.

The CheckMilk assessment evaluates six key areas of dairy farming: animal health, milking hygiene, nutrition, environment, animal welfare, and socioeconomic management. Based on the results, each property receives specific technical recommendations tailored to its context and implementation capacity.

During the visits, recurring challenges were identified, especially in sanitary management, milking practices, and reproduction. “Many farmers reported long calving intervals, which negatively impact productivity. With targeted technical assistance, we can address these issues and help improve production consistency throughout the year,” adds Isabelle.

All evaluated producers were registered in the CheckMilk platform, which will allow continuous monitoring of progress and periodic reassessment of the farms over time. The goal is to promote consistent improvement, focusing on milk quality, sustainability, and strengthening family dairy farming in the region.

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.