Aiming for the best welfare

Agricultural systems have undergone a continuous process of development since the time animals were first domesticated. Initially, domestication resulted in a mutual benefit to both the animal and the farmer. The farmer was able to establish a more secure and nutritious food supply, whilst the animal was provided with protection from predators, guaranteed food supply and care in times of sickness and injury.

However, today's farming systems have been intensified to 'factory' systems, resulting in situations where animals are no longer able to express normal behaviour, their welfare is compromised by extreme genetic selection, and there is an increase in disease. Through the Model Farm Project, WSPA and FAI want to redress this problem and ensure animal welfare is inherent in future livestock farming systems.

Model Farm Project activities

• Establishing a training demonstration centre to:
  
  (1) provide courses and training on animal welfare and humane farm animal management
  
  (2) demonstrate humane farm animal management techniques and procedures to interested parties
  
  
• Conduct research on fields of animal welfare and humane farm animal management, including environmental, veterinary and food research
  
  
• Carry out high animal welfare management and farm activities in a commercially viable way in order to demonstrate the practical reality of humane and sustainable farming