Feed and Fodder Manager - Enabling Impact - Office of Programs at International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC)

Responsibilities

• The consultant will support the development of a sustainable feed and fodder supply and facilitate the transition of dairy production in Southwest Nigeria to a more productive, low-carbon footprint and self-sustaining dairy farming system by improving access to inputs (especially, feed), services, technical expertise, financing, and sustainable markets. More specifically, the consultant will carry out the following activities:

Pasture and Fodder Management:(60%)

• Develop and implement plans for the sustainable management of pasture lands and fodder crops;
• Identify suitable fodder species based on the climate, soil type, and livestock requirements in Southwest, Nigeria;
• Oversee the use of organic or synthetic fertilizers and soil amendments to enhance fodder growth while monitoring the growth of fodder crops, ensuring optimal yields and nutritional content;
• Coordinate planting and harvesting schedules to ensure year-round availability of fodder, overseeing the selection, planting, and harvesting of crops such as grasses, legumes, and silage;
• Promote sustainable land use and regenerative agriculture practices that enhance soil health and biodiversity;
• Implement rotational grazing, agroforestry, and cover cropping to maintain pasture productivity and ecosystem balance;
• Work with local farmers, cooperatives, and government agencies to promote sustainable fodder and pasture management practices, participating in initiatives aimed at improving regional fodder supply chains and livestock feeding practices; Engage with the local community to emphasize on the importance of responsible grazing and pasture management to ensure long term land productivity.

Livestock Feed Management:(20%)

• Ensure that the produced fodder meets the nutritional requirements of the livestock;
• Monitor livestock health and adjust feeding strategies based on seasonal variations and pasture availability;
• Develop and manage irrigation systems to ensure that pastures and fodder crops receive adequate water. Monitor water usage to ensure efficiency, minimizing waste and environmental impact;
• Develop and implement pest and weed control strategies that minimize damage to pasture and fodder crops;
• Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) approaches to control pests and weeds, reducing reliance on chemical treatments;
• Manage resources, including machinery, seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs necessary for fodder and pasture production. Ensure that equipment such as tractors, irrigation systems, and harvesting machines are well- maintained and operated efficiently.

Monitoring and Evaluation:(20%)

• Regularly assess pasture conditions, fodder crop performance, and livestock feed quality;
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as pasture productivity, fodder yield, and grazing efficiency;
• Use data and observations to make informed decisions regarding adjustments to grazing schedules, crop management, and resource allocation;
• Maintain accurate records of pasture and fodder production, including yields, grazing patterns, and resource usage.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master or PhD) in agriculture, livestock management, animal nutrition, soil sciences, environmental science or a related field;