Mathematical Modeling and Computer Simulation of a Simplified Silvopastoral System - La Aguada (Cordoba-Argentina)

Abstract

Integrated systems, such as silvopastoral systems (SPS), are strategies for the sustainable intensification of livestock farming. The "La Aguada" Silvopastoral System (SPS-LA) in the Río Cuarto, Córdoba-Argentina, originally presents a topology of five areas. This study proposes a "Simplified La Aguada Silvopastoral System" (SPS-LAS), reduced to three areas: treeless pasture area, confinement area, and silvopastoral area. The objective was to develop and apply an optimization model for managing cattle movement in this simplified system. An integer linear programming (ILP) model was formulated to maximize animal weight gain and minimize management costs. The model was implemented and validated by computer simulation on the Octave platform, evaluating a herd of 100 animals over 12 months. The simulation, executed on a simple desktop, generated an optimal solution for herd allocation. The results indicated a preference for allocating resources to the "silvopastoral area" justified by the lower associated cost, while the "confinement area" was used as a contingency unit. The ILP model proved to be a robust tool for planning and optimizing livestock production in simplified integrated systems.