PERKEMBANGAN TEKNOLOGI SILASE SEBAGAI STRATEGI ADAPTASI PAKAN RUMMINANSIA DI KABUPATEN BLITAR

Abstract

The development of silage technology in Blitar Regency represents a strategic response to the challenges of ruminant feed availability in tropical regions with extreme seasonal variations. This case study aims to examine comprehensively the dynamics of silage technology adoption, the driving and inhibiting factors, as well as its impact on livestock productivity and farmer welfare. The research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design, conducted in Blitar Regency from July to December 2025. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 informants consisting of farmers, heads of livestock farmer groups, extension workers from the Livestock and Animal Health Office of Blitar Regency, academics, and feed industry business actors, combined with participatory observation and documentation. Data analysis followed the interactive model of Miles and Huberman. The findings reveal that silage technology has developed across three scales: individual farmers, farmer groups, and commercial feed industry, with the export of 156 tons of ruminant feed to Brunei Darussalam in March 2025 marking a significant milestone. Driving factors include relevance to seasonal feed needs, availability of local agricultural waste, support from government, universities, and TNI, as well as economic incentives. Inhibiting factors include limited access to production facilities, lack of sustained mentoring, and perception of silage as an emergency solution. Silage application improves livestock productivity (body condition and milk production stability), reduces feed costs up to 50%, and creates new business opportunities. This study concludes that silage technology has high potential for development as a regional superior commodity, but requires continuous mentoring, capacity building, and multi-stakeholder synergy to ensure sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.