SmartSAMM extension programme seeks transformation to achieve mastitis and milk quality targets (original) (raw)

SmartSAMM is the New Zealand dairy industry's mastitis extension program, building on the SAMM Plan and Dairy Australia's Countdown program. SmartSAMM aims to achieve, by 2016, a national average bulk milk somatic cell count of 150,000 cells/mL, meeting the original SAMM Plan target set two decades ago. In 2012, SmartSAMM refreshed its 2009 plan with more rigour towards the 2016 targets, including use of ADOPT software. It appeared change on farm would need to be transformational rather than incremental. Farmer case studies with advisor input report transformational changes occurring. The challenge is to combine Technology Transfer, Problem Solving and Facilitation of SmartSAMM principles and interventions, through four complementary channels: 1) Marketing and communications, 2) The veterinary channel, 3) Advisor networks, and 4) Milk processors. The plan incorporates in the design Key Result Areas, and Success Outcomes Markers, as a basis for evaluation against targets and ...