Pork Insight Articles

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Prairie Swine Centre is an affiliate of the University of Saskatchewan


Prairie Swine Centre is grateful for the assistance of the George Morris Centre in developing the economics portion of Pork Insight.

Financial support for the Enterprise Model Project and Pork Insight has been provided by:



A low cost balloon-type lagoon cover

Posted in: Prairie Swine Centre by admin on January 1, 1996 | No Comments

Existing odour control methods for manure lagoons are cost intensive. Economical and effective covering methods for manure lagoons need to be studied and developed. This study demonstrated that a balloon-type manure lagoon cover could be an economical and effective method in reducing odour emission to the atmosphere. In this balloon type cover, a plastic tarp was tightened around perimeter, and inflated on the top, of a lagoon using a low pressure blower. The perimeter of the tarp was airtight. That way, odour was confined within the lagoon and the emission of odour into the atmosphere was minimized. Technical aspects such as proper installation and sealing of perimeters for the cover were tested. Critical pressures (minimum operating pressures to prevent flapping of the tarp) versus wind were determined. The cover effectively eliminated the odour emission to atmosphere and improved the landscape. The cover cost was approximately $6,000, which is considered to be much less expensive compared to solid structure covers such as steel and wood. It is expected that the cover to be used for earthen lagoons if a concrete foundation around the lagoon perimeter is constructed.

Managing Odors from Swine Waste AEU-8

Posted in: Environment by admin on | No Comments

Odours are difficult to measure as well to manage. As we see an increasing trend to more intensive livestock operations odours will become a larger issue that must be dealt with. The most effective way to control odour is to indentify the source and take corrective action to eliminate it. Odour sources can be divided into three categories: (1) building and facilities (2) Outside storage systems (3) land application. Sources of odours in and around buildings include: wet dirty floors and spilled, moldy feed to name a few. The solutions for building odours can be based on best management practices, keep the facilities clean. Management also plays a key role in the management of odour of lagoons: control the pH and cover whenever possible. Land application should include direct injection, as well taking into account prevailing winds on days of application. Producers must recognize, how ododur effects individuals is based on perception, therefore must develop a sensitivity and effective resposne to neighbours perceptions.

Evaluation of feeders for growing and finishing pigs

Posted in: Prairie Swine Centre by admin on | No Comments

Twelve commercial feeders were evaluated in 4 pens of 12 pigs each during the 12-wk growing/finishing period. Feeders were classified according to their feed form (dry vs. wet/dry) and space (single vs. multiple space). In total there were 2 single-spaced dry (SS-D), 3 single spaced wet/dry (SS-WD). Average daily gain and feed disappearance were 5% greater with wet/dry feeders than with dry. The effect of wet/dry feeders on growth was only evident during the final 8 wk of the trial, while feed disappearance tended to be higher throughout. Carcasses of pigs fed from dry feeders yielded a higher lean percentage than did those of pigs fed from wet/dry feeders. Single and multiple space feeders did not differ in gain or feed disappearance at any point during the trial. Feed efficiency did not differ among feeder classes.

 
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