Swine Field Trip Reflection

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School

Oregon State University, Corvallis *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

216

Subject

Anthropology

Date

Apr 3, 2024

Type

pdf

Pages

2

Uploaded by PresidentHyenaPerson616

1. Speaker 1: - What role do genetics play in your show pig operation, and how do you select In the show pig industry, genetics play a crucial role, with AI semen from the Midwest contributing significantly. Pigs are strategically bred around mid-September or early October to ensure precise birthdates in January. Each sow is identified, fostering organization, and a warm environment is maintained, especially during lactation. The pigs follow a specific diet, and the selection process involves assessing both purebred Yorkshire traits and behavioral characteristics. Noteworthy practices include using PCAI (artificial insemination) twice or sometimes thrice, avoiding natural breeding. - How do you address concerns related to animal welfare, and what steps do you take to ensure that your pigs are treated with care and respect throughout their life cycle? The operation utilizes a farrowing crate that provides space and aids in managing the pigs effectively. Regular heating lamps are employed, and video surveillance helps improve breeding practices. Biosecurity measures, including clothing changes, are strictly adhered to. Building bonds with the sows through walks and twice-daily training sessions is crucial. The aim is to achieve a weight of 280 lbs for exhibition at fairs. 2. Speaker 2: - During your time at Pipestone System, were there any notable changes or innovations in sow farming practices that you witnessed, and how did these changes impact the overall efficiency of the operation? During the speaker's time at Pipestone System, notable changes, particularly in cleanliness standards and the adoption of automatic feeders, were observed. The use of ear tags streamlined information retrieval, contributing to overall efficiency. Challenges included adapting to commercial farming and language barriers. Noteworthy innovations involved the use of purebred Duroc boars and two different gestation stalls. The farm's commitment to PCAI and contingency plans for power outages showcased its dedication. Despite challenges, the farm refrains from euthanizing healthy pigs, even if aggressive. - As a former intern, what aspects of the swine industry surprised you the most, and how have those insights influenced your perspective on pig farming? The speaker encountered a steep learning curve transitioning from show to commercial farming at Pipestone System. Innovations included dealing with dead litters, diseases, and the emotional challenge of euthanizing litters has shifted her perspective on pig farming. Insights gained significantly influenced the speaker's perspective on adaptability and understanding the broader dynamics of pig farming. 3. Speaker 3: - How do you manage the balance between allowing pigs to roam in a pasture- based system and ensuring they receive proper veterinary care and attention when needed?
Engaged in a farrow-to-finish pasture-based system, primarily with Berkshire pigs, the speaker avoids feeding corn or soy. The focus is on barley and peas feed to mitigate breeding and ammonia concerns. Intensive labor is a challenge, but regular checks (twice a day) on pigs ensure veterinary care is rarely needed due to the spacious environment. The speaker envisions the pasture-based system as a growing and less niche business, emphasizing the avoidance of routine vaccinations for meat pigs. Pigs are butchered at six months old, with deworming applied if growth is not optimal. - Can you share any insights into how your pasture-based system aligns with consumer preferences for ethically raised and sustainable pork, and how consumer feedback has influenced your farming practices? The pasture-based system aligns with consumer preferences for ethically raised and sustainable pork. Consumer feedback, particularly regarding the avoidance of soy in the feed, has influenced the speaker's farming practices positively. Despite challenges, the speaker foresees the potential for pasture-based systems to become more mainstream, catering to consumers who prioritize ethically raised and sustainable meat. Reflection: From Speaker 1: - I find interesting that the practice of brushing and oiling the pigs to achieve a shiny and soft coat stood out. Additionally, the use of purple shampoo during warmer months, particularly for white pigs prone to staining, added a unique touch to their grooming routine. This attention to detail not only showcases the commitment to presentation in show pig breeding but also offers an interesting glimpse into the measures taken to maintain the pigs' aesthetic appeal. From Speaker 2: - I gained new insights discovering that in situations where pigs were exposed to contaminants or elements detrimental to a clean environment, the approach involved opting for euthanasia. This was a departure from my previous assumption that they might provide more intensive care and treatment for the affected pigs. From Speaker 3: - I learned that he deliberately refrains from forming attachments to animals. Moreover, managing a pasture-based system poses its greatest challenge in its labour-intensive nature.
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