R.H.M. Bergevoet

Improving the Entrepreneurial Competencies of Dutch Dairy Farmers through the Use of Study Groups

Abstract The objective of this paper is to describe and analyse the role that study groups might play in improving the entrepreneurial competencies of farmers. The most important competencies are described. Emphasis is placed on group learning processes and participatory approaches. Theories of adult learning and extension paradigms in relation to our experiences in the ‘Innovative Entrepreneurship’ study are addressed. We conclude that in our research, participatory approaches and using study groups are an aid to gaining explicit and implicit knowledge. Consequently, they are effective methods for training entrepreneurial competencies and creating an environment in which participants are able to learn effectively.

Economic assessment of Q fever in the Netherlands.

In this paper the economic impact of controlling the Q fever epidemic in 2007-2011 in the Netherlands is assessed. Whereas most of the long-term benefits of the implemented control programme stem from reduced disease burden and human health costs, the majority of short-term intervention costs were incurred in the dairy goat sector. The total intervention cost in agriculture amounted approximately 35,000 Euro per DALY occurred. By culling of infected animals, breeding prohibition and vaccination, the epidemic seems to be under control. As the dairy goat vaccination programme continues, future expenses in maintaining the current protected status are relatively low.

Economics of eradicating Foot-and-Mouth disease epidemics with alternative control strategies

The paper presents an economic analysis of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control strategies for livestock herds. Alternative vaccination-to-live control strat...