The Benefits of Modern Ag For Pigs

Study shows moving pigs inside has huge benefits
Nov 23, 2009 12:09 PM MST

COLUMBIA, MO(MU release) – A study by University of Missouri Extension swine experts shows that moving pigs indoors has led to improved health for pigs and higher-quality product for consumers.

Since the shift to concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), veterinarians have seen a significant decline in parasites, said Beth Young, swine veterinarian with the University of Missouri Commercial Agriculture Program. Young spoke at the 2009 Swine Institute in Columbia, Nov. 10.

The Commercial Agriculture Swine Focus Team looked at changes in the swine industry since 1945.

In the 1940s, 55-70 percent of pigs were infected with lungworms. By the 1970s lungworm outbreaks only affected about 11 percent of farms. "In the past decade, lungworms are rarely seen," Young said.

"Likewise, 78-94 percent of pigs were infected with kidney worms in the 1940s, and now infestations are rarely seen," she said. Read More

It’s more than annoying to hear the anti-agriculture crowd try claiming that modern livestock housing is unhealthy for our animals. Even without these scientific studies, farmers and ranchers can easily see what methods for raising livestock allow them to be more comfortable. But it’s studies like these that we need to combine with our own stories to share with our consumers.

HSUS in Illinois

Sow Stall Ban Initiated in Illinois Senate
USAgNet - 02/17/2009

Last week, legislation that would ban the use of gestation stalls in Illinois was introduced in the Illinois Senate.

The way it is drafted, it appears that the legislation would include farrowing stalls, as well.

Senate Bill 1337 was introduced by Sen. James DeLeo (D-10, Chicago). The bill has been initiated by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and was introduced as part of the group's lobby day on Feb. 10.

The legislation is similar to the ballot initiatives banning the use of gestation stalls, stalls for veal calves and battery cages for egg laying hens that have passed in California, Arizona and Florida. The proposed legislation would become effective January 1, 2010.

DeLeo has agreed to hold the bill until all information can be brought forward, including comments from the Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Pork Producers Association. Link

HSUS is running full throttle in the states right now. Everything from banning gestation stalls to redefining animal cruelty. If you disagree with what HSUS is trying to do, then you need to be getting involved in your state politics. Be in contact with your representatives, work with your ag groups that you are involved with, and if you don’t belong to some sort of trade group, you should. Now is not the time to be sitting back and thinking that someone will take care of this for you.