Study on The Feasibility of Raising Cattle in A Free Herd and in Cage of Farmers in Nakhon Phanom

Abstract

This article aims to compare the feasibility of raising cattle using free-range and confined systems. In terms of market feasibility, technical feasibility and financial feasibility. The research used qualitative and quantitative research instruments. Through in-depth interviews with 10 beef farmers. In terms of market feasibility, the Diamond Model simulation provides average scores for free-range and confined cattle raising of 49.23% and 62.31%, respectively. SWOT Analysis reveals that the strength of confined cattle raising lies in the availability of high-quality feed, while the weakness of free-range cattle raising is due to insufficient food sources. Both methods share similar opportunities and threats. The TOWS Matrix analysis indicates that the aggressive strategy for confined cattle raising is advantageous for higher meat production, whereas the corrective strategy for free-range cattle raising is less effective in increasing meat yield. Defensive and reactive strategies are similar for both methods. In terms of technical feasibility, both scenarios are utilized Thai-Charolais crossbred cattle. Free-range cattle raising involves open grazing, while confined cattle raising is characterized by limited space but more robust infrastructure. Confined cattle raising involves the use of machinery. From the perspective of financial feasibility, the Net Present Value for free-range and confined cattle raising is 437,311.69 THB and 1,609,443.98 THB, respectively. The Benefit-Cost Ratio is 1.19 and 1.52, respectively. The Internal Rate of Return is 35.33% and 43.88%, respectively. The payback periods are 2 years and 1.6 years, respectively. The switching value tests for cost changes are 18.7% and 51.6%, respectively, and for return changes, they are 15.8% and 34%, respectively.