Optimizing the utilization of plantation waste for carrying capacity of beef cattle feed in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia

The availability of feed, especially forages, in terms of quality, quantity, and sustainability, plays a crucial role in determining the success of ruminant livestock farming. Continuous efforts are needed to provide food that meets the nutritional needs of livestock to ensure an adequate supply of feed. The main constraint in meeting the demand for forage is the limited availability of suitable land for its production. Currently, the land used for producing livestock forage tends to be located in regions with low soil fertility. This study specifically reveals the phenomenon of alternative feed from plantation waste, including oil palm, coconut, coffee, cocoa, cashew, and sago plants, using a carrying capacity formula to assess the potential of plantation waste as livestock feed. The analysis utilizes data from various supporting documents. The findings indicate that the potential for developing beef cattle in Southeast Sulawesi is quite promising when utilizing plantation waste as a source of livestock feed. This is evident from the carrying capacity analysis, which shows that plantation waste can provide year-round feed with variable carrying capacities depending on the extent of plantation areas.