Monitoring of dairy farm management practice and production performances using Structural Equation Modeling in Amhara region, Ethiopia

Abstract Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to monitor the dairy management practice and dairy production performance in Amhara region. Data was collected from 117 dairy farms on frontal interview on cluster sampling approaches to identify respondents. The model result revealed that the relationship between construct reliabilities and the dairy farm facilities was significantly varies (p < 0.01). The model analysis showed that the level of education has a positive and statistically significant relationship with the reproduction performance of dairy farms, with a correlation value of (ρ = 0.337), moreover, the gross revenue of the farm showed as (r = 0.849). Farm gross revenue articulated a positive, strong, and statistically significant association with feed and nutrition indicated value (0.906), dairy farm facilities (ρ = 0.934), hygiene and waste management (0.921). As a consequence, the predictors of dairy farm facilities feed and nutrition and hygiene and waste management explained 93.40, 84.0, 80.20 and 88.50% of the variance. From the study it can be concluded that, the proposed model is valid and training and education have an effect on farm management practices, subsequently affects the productive performance of dairy farm in Amhara region. Therefore, the researchers are recommending to regional agriculture and extension offices and other concerned organization to monitor the sector and provide appropriate training and awareness to the farm owners