Morehead State’s Department of Agricultural Sciences is the recipient of a grant from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to upgrade equipment in its swine production facility at the Derrickson Agricultural Complex, according to a press release from the university.
“I believe that these upgrades can be a game changer for helping our students be more prepared for their careers after graduation,” said Flint Harrelson, associate professor of animal science. “I also believe that these upgrades will be valuable assets to the bountiful resources at the Derrickson Agricultural Complex.”
The nearly $47,000 grant from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) will pay for updated equipment used for animal husbandry, specifically sow nutritional management and the care of sick piglets. The swine facility was built in the early 2000s, and the equipment is outdated.
“Over the past 20+ years, the industry has seen many advances in technology and housing including the almost universal adoption of pen gestation systems with electronic sow feeders. These technologies also have allowed for more efficient and sustainable management of labor, farms, and animals,” Harrelson said. “These upgrades will make our students more marketable upon graduation as they will have not only the animal husbandry skills to care for the livestock but also the technical experience of working with equipment found in modern swine facilities. These upgrades can also expand the opportunities for industry applied research which can aid students in gaining valuable life skills along with building more industry connections and options for graduates.”