issue 6 winter 2018 research and...
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toPigsIssue 6 Winter 2018 Research and Innovation
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED | www.australianpork.com.au | [email protected] | Toll Free 1800 789 099
The Winter 2018 edition of Pigs to Pork highlights the APL management of the industry benchmarking program, recently published resources available for producers, an update on the Australian Pig Industry Leadership Course as well
as the key messages delivered at the 2018 Pan Pacific Pork Expo.
Inside this issue:
APL MembershipFor information call Rachel Blake on 02 6270 8807 or visit the APL website at www.australianpork.
com.au/members.
Environment, Energy and Soils – Leave no stone unturned…
– page 4 –
PPPE Explores Industry Efficiency
– page 6 –
Aussie Pork Pioneers Set
Sights Overseas– page 3 –
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WEEK 1Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 2Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 3Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 4Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk through at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 25Summer is Over! - well the seasonal infertility period that is. Review with staff the impact SI has had on your herd this past summer/autumn and formulate a plan to tackle SI next summer if need be.
Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 26Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 27Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 28Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers .
WEEK 13Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are less chance of run-off.
WEEK 14Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 15Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 16Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 37Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 38Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 39Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 40Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers
WEEK 5Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 6Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fe fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 7Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 8Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 29Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 30Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 31Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 32Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 17Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 18Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 19Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 20Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 41Summer is coming! Over the coming month check that all cooling systems are functioning and in good repair, cooling system maintenance is carried out, drinker fl ow rates are checked and adjusted if required. Also refer to the APL/Pork CRC publication “Preparing for the summer months - seasonal infertility and beyond” for additional information.
Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 42Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 43Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 44Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 9Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 10Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 11Take the time to review your farm’s Biosecurity Plan. Further information on this can be found on APL’s website http://australianpork.com.au/
WEEK 12Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 33Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 34Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 35Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 36Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 21Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 22Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 23Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 24Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 45Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 46Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 47Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 48Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 49Summer is here! - make sure all staff know the management plan for seasonal infertility - this includes both farrowing house and mating shed management practices to try and minimise the impact of seasonal infertility.
Utilise the nutrients in your effl uent pond by spreading when pastures and crops are actively growing and there is less chance of run-off.
WEEK 50Discuss with your feed supplier or nutritionist diet nutrient adjustments as the seasons change; nutrient dense diets could lead to problems with fat pigs during the colder weather. Also discuss feeding levels changes to gestating sows to ensure that the girls are fed enough to maintain body condition and produce a healthy, viable litter. In all these discussions you should also check with your genetics supplier as they will have a comprehensive overview of the nutrient requirements of your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 51Check weights and calibrate drop or portion feeding systems at least 4 times a year, and defi nitely with any change in diet formulations. If handfeeding sows in lactaion also test weigh new diet formulations i.e. does the scoop that held 2.5 kg still hold 2.5 kg or is it under/over?
WEEK 52Check rodent bait stations for bait disappearance. Adjust accordingly. Remember to undertake shed walk throughs at night to gauge rodent numbers.
YEARLY PIG PRODUCTION PLANNER
Rodent Control
Nutritionist
Check rodent bait stations
key
FOR FURTHER INFORMATIONE: [email protected] P: 02 6270 8823
Printed in June 2018
APL Benchmarking
Program – page 2 –
Dr Mark Henryon (SEGES) and Ellen Møller Hansen (Unitron) address the audience at PPPE
Wayne Bradshaw, Dr Alice Weaver and Dr Heather Channon. Alice was the recipient of the 2018 Ron Collins Memorial Award
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED | www.australianpork.com.au | [email protected] | Toll Free 1800 789 0992 AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED | www.australianpork.com.au | [email protected] | Toll Free 1800 789 099 3
Issue 6 Winter 2018Pigs to Pork
APL Benchmarking Program - The Transition of Management from Pork CRC
What is benchmarking?
Benchmarks measure changes over time for specific parameters in an individual or single enterprise/company or across a set of similar individuals or enterprises.
Participation in benchmarking programs can enable pig producers to (i) determine what and where improvements are called for, (ii) learn how other farms achieve their performance levels (through reports and group discussions) and (iii) use this information to improve performance.
Benchmarking can also be a strategic motivator through presenting producers with production figures being achieved on other farms that could also be attained on their farms if changes are made. Benchmarking may also be used by service industries that provide inputs to track the success of their advice/products to that industry.
The Pork CRC benchmarking program has provided valuable data over time. Discussions with producers, who are involved in the Pork CRC benchmarking program as well as those that are not, have suggested that a benchmarking program needs to provide incentives for producers to improve and to stretch their performance targets.
The program is looking to attract a wide range of producers so that producers can learn from each other, especially on a ‘like with like’ basis.
Producer interactions at face-to-face meetings are extremely valuable and beneficial to hear (and learn) what others are doing well or finding challenging i.e. Where do they sit? What are people doing differently? Where are their strengths and weaknesses? Importantly, the data must be representative of industry and, where possible, include financials (eg. feed, labour and health costs).
An additional consideration for the pig industry is that, unlike many of the pastoral livestock industries or horticulture or grain enterprises, pig producers tend to be relatively isolated.
Farm visits tend to be nearly impossible to arrange because of biosecurity concerns, and given that there are about 400 producers that produce 90% of production in a country the size of Australia, organising regular “get-togethers” can be too difficult and may only occur in times of great difficulty or during a crisis.
This is not ideal for the transfer of information, or maintaining good contact between producers and various stakeholders.
Some of the key points going forward into the APL Benchmarking Program are:
• Data collection will be via your already existingPig Pass portal (using your Pig Pass login).
• Data will be required to be submitted monthly(currently it is submitted quarterly).
• All data will be primary (i.e. Key PerformanceIndicators directly downloadable from any herdrecording program)
• There is no minimum farm size or specificproduction type
• Meetings will be held every 6 months wherethose involved in the program are encouragedto attend - it is hoped that in time these willbe regional meetings (dependent on thesize of the group)
Please contact Ashley Norval [email protected] toobtain further information on how to becomeinvolved with the APL Benchmarking program.
Some delegates meetings ago, an issue was raised that APL needed to have a leadership course for the pork industry to support the growth of up-and-coming leaders. It was thought that this course would enable an alumni of course participants to develop and to become a support network for the next generation of pork industry leaders.
The first year of the Australian Pork Industry Leadership Program is now underway- the Aussie Pork Pioneers (self named group) comprises:
• Tracy Anderson (QLD)
• Tristan Donaldson (NSW)
• Robert Hewitt (QLD)
• Andrea Dent (WA)
• Hayden Stocks (VIC)
• Paul Ridgewell (WA)
The first workshop was held from 4-7 May and was built around an outdoor experiential challenge, facilitated Zoe Routh (Inner Compass). This was designed to be a fast track experience to strengthen team dynamics, identify and manage communication issues and embed a practice of collaboration across the team. All participants had extremely positive feedback and gained more from the course than they initially expected. A number of these participants have expressed an interest in attending APL delegates meetings to learn more about the process and become more involved in industry decision making.
Planning is now well underway for the second workshop which will be held in Denmark from 17-27th October. Participants have been asked to provide details of a topic they would like to investigate further.Ashley Norval will tailor the visit based on these requests- which this will help to shape participants thoughts when reporting back to industry about their learnings.
It is anticipated that the group will visit multiple farming operations, processing plants, the 2018 Svine Kongressen (the Danish version of PPPE) and some commercial showrooms.
The final workshop will be held in Canberra at the end of January 2019 and will focus on leadership thinking skills development. This will focus on two areas: emotional intelligence and engagement with others (difficult conversations and the more public world of media) as well as thinking in complexity (how to think like a futurist).
By developing awareness of leadership issues across the sector, this course is aiming to prepare participants for a broader leadership engagement platform, and for future roles on industry Boards, associations, and communities.
Applications for the second leadership course will open in February 2019. For further information please contact Ashley Norval at [email protected]
Aussie Pork Pioneers Set Sights Overseas
Zoë Routh (facilitator), Hayden Stocks, Andrea Dent, Robert Hewitt,
Ashley Norval, Tristan Donaldson, Tracy Anderson, Paul Ridgewell
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED | www.australianpork.com.au | [email protected] | Toll Free 1800 789 0994 AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED | www.australianpork.com.au | [email protected] | Toll Free 1800 789 099 5
Issue 6 Winter 2018
The Research and Innovation Team at APL have produced several key documents that will become important reference material for the industry.
These include:
• National Environmental Guideline for Indoor Piggeries (NEGIP) Third Edition
• Understanding Energy in Pig Production
• Soil indicator Guideline and Factsheets
• Planning for Piggeries (indoor and outdoor) Animations
• Outdoor Awareness Videos
• Industry Rodenticide Stewardship Plan
• Yearly Pig Production Planning Calendar
National Environmental Guideline for Indoor Piggeries (NEGIP)
The Third Edition of the National Environmental Guidelines for Indoor Piggeries (NEGIP) is being published and will soon be available from APL. The NEGIP provides siting and design guidance for indoor piggeries only, while the National Environmental Guideline for Rotational Outdoor Piggeries (NEGROP) provide similar guidance for outdoor piggeries. This new edition includes updates based on the latest research and changes in acceptable design and management practices.
The NEGIP provides information on topics including planning, site selection, separation and buffer distances, cleaner production, housing design and management, effluent management systems, reuse areas, nutrient content of effluent and manures, carcass disposal, monitoring, chemical storage and environmental management plans. Extensive consultation with regulatory bodies, producers and consultants was undertaken throughout this review process.
Environment, Energy and Soils – Leave no stone unturned…
Understanding energy in pig production
Many producers were involved in the energy audit that was conducted on APL’s behalf by the Energy Guys. As electricity, fuel and gas prices have increased by 25-40% over the past few years in pig production areas, the need to reduce energy costs is high on the agenda of Australian pig producers. The information and lessons learnt from this audit have now been published as a booklet.
This booklet contains details on how to monitor energy usage and provides key benchmarking data for lighting, heating, ventilation and pumping. In addition, electricity tariffs and a series of case studies on biogas, boilers, LPG, and solar energy are also presented. Alternatives available to producers to reduce energy use include choosing the best tariff, managing power usage and considering alternate power sources.
Soil indicator guide
Sustainable soil management is a priority to the Australian pig industry and requires understanding of manure and effluent characteristics. Application rates of nutrient rich materials must be matched to soil requirements for agronomic and environmental goals. All piggeries produce effluent and this can have a beneficial or harmful impact on soil health depending on how it is managed. Growing crops in manure and effluent reuse areas removes nutrients from the soil. However, the ratio of nutrients doesn’t always match plant requirements and not all nutrients are available in the first year.
It is therefore important that clear information is available to enable producers to understand nutrient and soil interactions. The soil indicator guide provides useful information on understanding and interpreting manure and effluent analysis results, as well as soil indicator results in manure and effluent reuse areas. Also included are general soil indicators, agronomic soil indicators and environmental soil indicators.
Planning for piggeries (indoor and outdoor) animations
Two explainer videos that provide guidance on piggery planning requirements and the assessment of planning permit applications for indoor and outdoor piggeries has been produced to help producers understand what they need to do if they want to develop a piggery or expand their current operations.
Outdoor awareness videos
In order to raise awareness of best management practices for minimising environmental risks a series of outdoor awareness videos has been produced. These videos were developed for producers, proponents and planners and they are about the siting, layout and land management issues for outdoor piggeries. The videos are:
• Selecting a good site
• Land protection
• Nutrient distribution
• Soil testing
To order copies of these materials or to further discuss, please contact Denise Woods on [email protected] or 02 6270 8826.
Yearly Pig Production Planning Calendar
The yearly Pig Production Planning calendar designed to be placed in piggeries to remind all staff of upcoming seasonal changes and what they should be preparing for. The calendar incorporates yearly timing points to help producers prepare for summer, winter, rodenticide management, nutritionist consultation, biosecurity management etc.
For your copy or for further information please contact Dr Rebecca Athorn at [email protected] or 02 6270 8827
Industry Rodenticide Stewardship Plan
Rodents and other wildlife can play an important role in the transmission of pig diseases that can compromise the health and growth of pigs. An effective disease barrier system cannot be achieved or maintained without good rodent control.
Sound rodent control management can be achieved through an integrated approach made up of five basic steps:
• 1. Prevention & Hygiene
• 2. Monitoring
• 3. Non-chemical Solutions
• 4. Chemical Solutions-Baiting
• 5. On-going monitoring
This booklet provides information to allow producers and individual farms to set up their own Rodenticide Stewardship Plan.
To order copies of this or to discuss further, please contact Dr Lechelle van Breda on [email protected] or 02 6270 8816.
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WEEK 1Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 2Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 3Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 4Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk through at night to
gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 25Summer is Over! - well the
seasonal infertility period
that is. Review with staff
the impact SI has had on
your herd this past summer/
autumn and formulate a plan
to tackle SI next summer if
need be.
Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 26Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 27Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 28Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers .
WEEK 13Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 14Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons; nutrient dense diets
could lead to problems with
fat pigs during the colder
weather. Also discuss feeding
levels changes to gestating
sows to ensure that the girls
are fed enough to maintain
body condition and produce
a healthy, viable litter. In all
these discussions you should
also check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 15Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 16Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 37Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 38Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 39Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 40Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers
WEEK 5Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 6Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead
to problems with fat pigs
during the colder weather.
Also discuss feeding levels
changes to gestating sows
to ensure that the girls are
fe fed enough to maintain
body condition and produce
a healthy, viable litter. In all
these discussions you should
also check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 7Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 8Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 29Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 30Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 31Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 32Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 17Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 18Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 19Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 20Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 41Summer is coming! Over
the coming month check
that all cooling systems are
functioning and in good
repair, cooling system
maintenance is carried
out, drinker fl ow rates are
checked and adjusted if
required. Also refer to the
APL/Pork CRC publication
“Preparing for the summer
months - seasonal infertility
and beyond” for additional
information.
Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 42Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 43Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 44Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 9Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 10Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 11Take the time to review
your farm’s Biosecurity Plan.
Further information on
this can be found on APL’s
website http://australianpork.
com.au/
WEEK 12Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 33Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 34Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 35Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 36Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 21Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 22Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 23Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 24Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 45Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 46Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 47Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 48Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
WEEK 49Summer is here! - make
sure all staff know the
management plan for
seasonal infertility - this
includes both farrowing
house and mating shed
management practices to try
and minimise the impact of
seasonal infertility.
Utilise the nutrients in your
effl uent pond by spreading
when pastures and crops are
actively growing and there is
less chance of run-off.
WEEK 50Discuss with your feed
supplier or nutritionist diet
nutrient adjustments as the
seasons change; nutrient
dense diets could lead to
problems with fat pigs during
the colder weather. Also
discuss feeding levels changes
to gestating sows to ensure
that the girls are fed enough
to maintain body condition
and produce a healthy,
viable litter. In all these
discussions you should also
check with your genetics
supplier as they will have a
comprehensive overview of
the nutrient requirements of
your pigs’ genotype.
WEEK 51Check weights and calibrate
drop or portion feeding
systems at least 4 times a
year, and defi nitely with any
change in diet formulations. If
handfeeding sows in lactaion
also test weigh new diet
formulations i.e. does the
scoop that held 2.5 kg still
hold 2.5 kg or is it under/
over?
WEEK 52Check rodent bait stations
for bait disappearance.
Adjust accordingly.
Remember to undertake
shed walk throughs at night
to gauge rodent numbers.
YEARLY PIG PRODUCTION PLANNER
Rodent Control
Nutritionist
Check rodent bait stations
key
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
E: [email protected] P: 02 6270 8823Printed in June 2018
UNDERSTANDING ENERGY IN PIG PRODUCTION
May 2018
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED
Understanding Energy in Pig Production
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED
National Environmental Guidelines
for Indoor Piggeries (NEGIP)
May 2018
May 2018
Edited by Dr Pat Mitchell
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED
Industry Rodenticide Stewardship Plan
AUSTRALIAN PORK LIMITED | www.australianpork.com.au | [email protected] | Toll Free 1800 789 0996
Issue 6 Winter 2018Pigs to Pork
PPPE Explores Industry EfficiencyHelping staff thrive can also play into this, according to management consultant, Kathryn Thomas. Kathryn talked about the importance of Value Based Leadership who focused on finding your ‘why’- knowing your personal values and communicating what’s important to you helps inspire staff and know they are part of something important. This helps people feel more fulfilled at work, assisting with staff retainment and performance.
APL’s Andrew Robertson provided the PPPE audience with an update on 457 visas. He noted the three streams for Temporary Skills Shortage visas that apply to the industry, each with different requirements. He also explained the Pork Industry Labour Agreement, which would retain the pathway to permanency, with an overall duration extended from four to five years.
Dr Vivi Aarestrup Moustsen from the Danish Pig Research Centre shared her thoughts on managing sows as high performing athletes. Vital to industry, sows give birth to large viable litters, produce a lot of milk and need to have a high level of health and endurance for this, not unlike our human athletes. Dr Moustsen said nutrition, housing and environment were all important factors to keep a sow at her peak performance through her whole life.
Working smarter, not harder, is the aim of implementing precision agriculture in piggeries. Consultant, Ellen Møller Hansen, Unitron, Denmark, used a case study to explore the role that systems and lists play in improving profitability on farm through greater accuracy and control.
For NSW pig farmer, Edwina Beveridge, Blantyre Farms, thinking outside the square has given them more control over costs, supported their growth. Blantyre Farms has been using methane digestion for five years, converting their manure into electricity and utilises food waste products for pig feed.
Dr Alice Weaver was announced as the recipient of the 2018 Ron Collins Memorial Award. She believes Australian producers very open to adopting reproductive technologies and that there’s so much potential for more to be done in this space. Dr Weaver plans to use her award to travel to Spain and learn about the European innovations in artificial insemination so she can bring those ideas home to share with Australian pig producers.
For more about PPPE or to view the videos when they’re available, visit www.pppe.com.au or follow PPPE on Facebook for the latest updates: facebook.com/PanPacificPorkExpo
Agricultural innovation and industry issues were the focus when the pig industry gathered on the Gold Coast at the end of May. The biennial Pan Pacific Pork Expo (PPPE) attracted more than 680 attendees and 44 exhibitors with a theme of “Driving Efficiency Together”. The agenda was framed around the PPPE theme, with speakers sharing learnings from the crocodile and poultry industries, as well as looking at international advances and trends within the pig industry.
The crocodile and pig industries are quite different, but Dr Sally Isberg from the Centre for Crocodile Research, said it was interesting that both industries are currently facing similar price and supply issues. Dr Isberg gave an overview of the Australian crocodile industry, including its move to sustainability and said the crocodile industry could also learn from the pig, poultry and aquaculture industries about how to improve biosecurity.
After buying an ageing broiler poultry business in 2004, David Speller embraced precision livestock farming (PLF) technology to improve efficiencies. He implemented behaviour monitoring, auto scales, feed and water registration, closed circuit TV surveillance, microphones and environmental monitoring, all of which has provided greater insight into animal behaviour and helped improve welfare. This includes being able to respond in real time, 24x7, to the animals’ needs.
In the USA, pig industry consolidation continues and slaughter capacity continues to rise. Dr Steve Pollman, DSP Consulting LLC, provided an update on US trends, noting the breeding herd is expanding and pigs per litter is also increasing. The focus for the industry is now on growth, liveability and number of piglets weaned per litter.
Dr Mark Henryon, Danish Pig Research Centre, shared the learnings from the DanBred program, which is examining productivity outcomes through genetics- producing better pigs and providing benefits to feed efficiency lean-meat content, conformation and litter size. Next steps for the program include focusing on long-term genetic gain, phenotypes, genomic information and social interaction.
Sourcing and retaining staff is a challenge for many businesses. Robert Tanti, a human relations and transformation professional, looked at the breadth of roles within the pork industry, how employers can make their organisation more attractive to prospective employees and discussed those factors that contribute to staff retention.