More Research Units
- Alternative Swine
- Farming Systems
- Organic Research
- Pasture-Based Beef
- Pasture-Based Dairy
- Pasture-Based Meat Goat
- Small Farm
See Also
Alternative Swine Unit Contacts
Niki Whitley, Ph.D.
Animal Science Specialist
North Carolina A&T State University
Cooperative Extension Program
336-285-4684
ncwhitle@ncat.edu
Silvana Pietrosemoli
Research Associate, Department of Animal Science
North Carolina State University
919-515-0814
silvana_pietrosemoli@ncsu.edu
Andrew Meier
Superintendent, Cherry Research Farm
North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
919-731-3270
andrew.meier@ncagr.gov
Resources
For a printable .pdf version of this page, please click here.
News Archives: Alternative Swine Unit Dedication, May 9, 2007
Brochures:
10 Ideas for Improving Resource Management in Outdoor Hog Production (.pdf)
Environmentally-Friendly Outdoor Pig Production In North Carolina (.pdf)
Importance of Ground Cover MAintenance in Outdoor Hog Production (.pdf)
Nutrient Management in Pasture-Based Swine Operations (.pdf)
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Alternative Swine Unit
Goal
In North Carolina, the interest in outdoor pig operations has increased considerably during the last decade. Acceptance by consumers of pork produced under these conditions has helped to establish alternative production systems that are often preferred by small producers. However, management challenges for outdoor swine operations present some environmental issues such as deterioration of vegetative ground cover, soil disturbance and high nutrient loads that could cause soil and water pollution. Animal welfare in these systems can also be a concern. Therefore, the goal of the Alternative Swine Unit is to provide opportunities for researchers to develop and demonstration methods for production that optimize productivity and animal welfare while minimizing environmental impacts.
Facilities & Animals
The Alternative Swine Unit currently consists of five permanent hoop houses as well as pastures that are set up for research and demonstration projects as needed. The hoop houses utilize a deep bedding system that is different from standard confinement facilities. The deep bedding—generally straw, corn stalks, or hay—is spread approximately 14 to 18 inches thick and provides a comfortable environment for the animals and allows rooting and other natural behaviors. It also helps control odors and decreases the risk of manure runoff affecting water quality.
Our primarily Yorkshire swine herd is unique in that it has been antibiotic-free for more than 30 years. Since the majority of outdoor swine producers in North Carolina are raising animals without antibiotics, use of an antibiotic-free herd provides the opportunity to use animals for research and demonstration projects that directly relate to producers. Technologies such as estrus synchronization and artificial insemination are used a great deal at the Unit.
Projects & Activities
Through the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) an integrated research and extension approach has been adopted by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, extension agents, farmers and consumers. This team is oriented toward the development of sustainable outdoor swine production systems that:
• Are flexible to permit adaptation to a wide range of soils,
topography and management practices
• Maintain vegetative ground cover
• Minimize the use of water
• Provide for animal welfare and well-being
• Decrease energy requirements
• Minimize labor needs
• Minimize impact on soil, water and air
• Are economically profitable
Projects conducted and planned at the Unit include those involving outdoor or pasture production practices such as site design, selection and preparation, animal control, stocking density, crop rotation, forage use, buffers and filter strips, vegetation management and animal behavior management. Additional research involves pest control (flies, swine internal parasites) and microbiological/disease status of outdoor, antibiotic-free pigs. Research involving breed types for outdoor use has been conducted. Used bedding and manure is used for composting and vermiculture projects. As with all of the CEFS Units, demonstration and training is an important component of the overall work at the Alternative Swine Unit. Field days, workshops and agricultural professional trainings complement and enhance the research component and interns and apprentices are welcome to be involved.
Significance
Outdoor-based swine production systems are perceived as more friendly to the animal and environment, however, in order to assure this, implementation of best management practices like those being studied at CEFS will be needed. In addition, farm profitability and viability will also be enhanced through the use of best management practices.
Supporting Organizations
- N.C. A&T State University School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
- N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
- N.C. State University College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
- N.C. State University College of Veterinary Medicine