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Ten Thousand (10K) Sow Startup Experience in Mexico
Posted in: Pork Insight Articles, Production by student on July 17, 2018
Author: Ezequiel Guardado
Reference: Banff Pork Seminar Proceedings 2018
Summary: With increasing To break the PEDv cycle companies have taken to building modern sow farms in isolated places, aiding in increased biosecurity. There are four components assisting in maximizing pork production including: genetics, health, nutrition and management. Human resource is another key aspect heavily influencing the operation.
Successfully, a 10,000 sow operation was developed in Northern Mexico. When designing the facility the first decision that has to be made is the location. A location is ideal if it enhances biosecurity.
Design is another aspect that needed by considered. When considering design it must
- also improve biosecurity,
- follow current health standards and regulations,
- be functional,
- a healthy atmosphere for both the production animals and the farm workers,
- and be consistent with the operational protocols of the company
A closed concept facility increases biosecurity and with utilizing fewer entry points the risk to the farm is decreased. This operation was designed with five points of entry: showers, reception window, disinfecting and down room, load area and mortality loading.
The overall size, length and width of the pens influences movement of both the animals and the production workers, to increase efficiency long pens and numerous hallways were utilized in the construction of this facility.
When bringing animals into the facility, all animals were retained for a corresponding quarantine and sampling process. One of the goals of this operation was to be completed breeding by 10 AM, to influence this the farm was built in a way that allows two teams to be breeding at one time.
So far, this operation has been able to hit breeding targets allowing for constant flow to the grow finish units. On average the farm is weaning 6002 piglets a week.
Ten Thousand (10K) Sow Startup Experience in Mexico