ASPI’s Efforts to Improve the Welfare of Laying Ducks through Farm Visits

As part of its efforts to improve the welfare of laying ducks, Across Species Project Indonesia (ASPI) regularly conducts visits to cage-free farms. Through these activities, ASPI aims to build stronger communication and collaboration with farmers.

Using a participatory approach, ASPI seeks to better understand farming conditions and the welfare of ducks in the field. Currently, these visits are still focused in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DI Yogyakarta) as an initial step to strengthen networks and provide support to farmers.

Objectives of ASPI's Farm Visits

ASPI's farm visits are not only observational but also serve as a platform for discussion and shared learning. The main objectives include:

1. Direct education and discussions with farmers
2. Socialization of the Duck Cage-Free Network and potential collaboration opportunities
3. Observation of duck farming conditions in the field
4. Initial assessment of farming practices related to duck welfare
5. Identification of challenges and opportunities for improving farming systems

Through these activities, ASPI not only collects data but also encourages knowledge exchange that benefits both parties.

Encouraging Collaboration through the Duck Cage-Free Network

One of the follow-up actions from these visits is inviting farmers to join the Duck Cage-Free Network.

What is Duck Cage-Free Network?

The Duck Cage-Free Network is a collaborative network established by ASPI to bring together laying duck farmers who have implemented or are committed to transitioning toward cage-free farming systems. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve animal welfare in the livestock sector.

Membership and Forms of Support in the Duck Cage-Free Network

Farmer participation in this network is marked by several aspects, including:

1. Signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
2. Listing the farm’s name on the ASPI website

In addition, farmers have the opportunity to receive various forms of support and incentives from ASPI, such as:

1. Technical training on animal welfare in duck farming
2. Water and air quality assessments
3. Duck health checks
4. Increased exposure through publication of farm profiles on the ASPI website

Towards Better Welfare in the Farming Systems

Through regular farm visits and the development of the Duck Cage-Free Network, ASPI hopes to promote better, more sustainable, and animal welfare-oriented farming practices. Strong collaboration between organizations and farmers is key to creating positive change in the laying duck farming sector.