Karjatalous

Karjatalous, or livestock farming, is the practice of managing domesticated animals to produce food and other agricultural outputs. It encompasses breeding, feeding, housing, health care, reproduction, and day-to-day management of herds and flocks. The aim is to sustain productive animals over their lifespans while optimizing yield, welfare, and economic viability.

In Finland, karjatalous has historically been a core part of rural livelihoods. Farms are often family-owned and range from small to mid-sized operations. The system combines pasture-based grazing with winter housing and stored feeds such as silage and hay. Species commonly involved include cattle (both dairy and beef), pigs, sheep, and to a lesser extent goats; poultry is present on mixed farms. Key products include milk, meat, breeding stock, wool, and leather.

Practices in karjatalous emphasize genetics and breeding strategies, nutrition planning, animal health and vaccination, reproductive management, and welfare. Technological advancement has brought automated milking, precision feeding, climate-controlled housing, and herd monitoring systems, improving efficiency and animal well-being. Disease control, biosecurity, and adherence to welfare standards are integral components, often in line with national and EU regulations.

Economic and policy context plays a significant role. Karjatalous operates within a framework of market conditions, farm subsidies, and environmental and animal welfare regulations. Sustainability considerations include nutrient management, land use, methane and other emissions, and the impact of farming on biodiversity.

Ongoing trends include farm consolidation, diversification (such as direct marketing and agri-tourism), and the adoption of innovative practices to enhance productivity while addressing environmental and welfare concerns.