Genetics, seasonality and human factors all play a role in getting a pork chop on a plate. And while there is no fail-safe playbook in raising hogs, three pork industry experts are sharing the production areas they would encourage producers to focus on most.
1. Health
Biosecurity is big part of the swine industry culture. But even with all the efforts made to keep disease out of barns, it can still happen. Disease management is the No. 1 topic Cara Haden, Pipestone veterinarian, talks with producers about.
One thing Haden is currently looking at is the rise of PRRS. She says even though monthly data reports aren’t showing a major increase in the disease, she’s hearing there’s a lot out there.
“We used to think we only had to worry about it in the winter months. But the last several years, we’ve seen a second peak show up in June and July,” she says. “This year is going to be no different based on what I’m hearing from people.”