ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN AN INDONESIAN DUCK EGG INDUSTRY: A CASE OF SUCCESSFUL RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Research examined the social, economic, and ecological factors underlying the success of a rural duck egg industry centered in the flood plain region of North Hulu Sungai Regency in South Kalimantan (Indonesia); the development of commercial duck farming there; and the industry's contribution to regional economic development. Family run duck farms which specialize in non-fertile egg production for urban markets are part of a horizontally integrated regional industry which also includes specialists in fertile egg production, egg hatching, duckling rearing, feed supply, and marketing. All duck farms are supported by extensive trade and transportation networks which are run by local entrepreneurs. Research findings indicate that innovations in traditional duck husbandry techniques have led to high production of Alabio ducks (Anas platyrhynchos borneo), duck eggs, and high profit potential for farmers.;Innovations in duck feed composition and flock management were examined with regard to how they have created conditions for increased participation in duck farming, especially among individuals previously excluded because of insufficient household labor. Analysis of surveys undertaken in two villages in District Amuntai Selatan found a variety of management strategies practiced by duck farming families and in addition, that the choice of strategy is primarily dependent on the availability of male labor in the family. Data show that many farmers successfully manipulate local and regional resources for use in duck feeds, in accordance with changes in their price and availability, to attain year-round egg production. These findings emphasize the importance of local innovators and entrepreneurs in fostering rural development.;Specific innovations in duck feed and flock management have been developed by local farmers to overcome problems resulting from the increasing population in the Hulu Sungai region and from the seasonal availability of feed resources, the latter due to the annual flooding of rivers and swamps. These innovations have been motivated by the demand for duck eggs in the growing population centers of South, East, and Central Kalimantan.