Economical and Social Importance of Buffalo in a Small Milk Production System

In tropical areas buffaloes are used to improve a milk and meat production in small farmers and have the social impact in keep the population in the rural areas. This paper describes the economical results of a milk production system composed by 10 lactation buffaloes and one sire, calves and weaned animals breed in Braquiaria sp. pasture at Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Using the production index and products prices the value of the work and economical results were calculated. In a year this production system controlled by a single man allows an income of USD 16527,03. The natural capacity of buffaloes to produce more milk and meat in tropical areas reduces the spending with modern corrals and medications, improving the economical results and environmental welfare.