Basic Agricultural Knowledge: Swine Industry

Basic Agricultural Knowledge

• Livestock Terminology: Know terms like sow (female), boar (male), gilt (young female), farrowing (giving birth), weaning (separating piglets from mother), and market weight (weight when sold).

• General Animal Science: Study the anatomy, physiology, and care of livestock, especially swine.

• Agricultural Practices: Understand swine production's role in agriculture and farming operations.

Swine Industry Overview

• Swine Breeds: Recognize common breeds like Yorkshire, Duroc, and Hampshire, and their traits.

• Industry Significance: Understand swine production's importance globally and in the U.S. agricultural system.

• Market Trends: Be aware of pork demand, production figures, and industry challenges.

Nutrition and Feeding

• Nutritional Requirements: Know the nutritional needs of swine for growth, including protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals.

• Feed Types: Recognize common feeds like corn, soybean meal, and supplements.

• Feed Conversion Efficiency: Understand the relationship between feed consumed and weight gained in swine.

Swine Health

• Common Diseases: Be familiar with swine illnesses like PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome) and swine flu.

• Biosecurity Practices: Understand disease prevention and hygiene in swine facilities for health and safety.

• Vaccinations and Treatments: Know the basics of swine veterinary care, including vaccinations and treatments.

Reproduction and Breeding

• Reproductive Anatomy: Understand the basic reproductive system in swine.

• Breeding Methods: Be familiar with artificial insemination (AI) and natural breeding techniques.

• Gestation and Farrowing: Know the reproductive cycle and farrowing management procedures.

Housing and Management

• Facility Design: Understand different housing systems, such as farrowing crates, gestation pens, and open housing.

• Environmental Control: Recognize the importance of temperature, ventilation, and waste management in swine housing.

• Piglet Management: Know care procedures for piglets during weaning, castration, and tail docking.

Production Economics

• Cost of Production: Understand expenses in swine production, such as feed, labor, veterinary care, and facilities.

• Profitability Metrics: Know performance indicators like average daily gain (ADG) and carcass quality.

• Marketing Strategies: Understand options like auctions, direct sales, and contracts for selling pigs.

Regulations and Ethics

• Animal Welfare: Know the principles of ethical treatment and handling of swine.

• Environmental Impact: Understand waste management and sustainability in swine production.

• Legal Compliance: Recognize regulations from the USDA, EPA, and state levels.

Soft Skills

• Critical Thinking: Analyze production challenges and develop solutions.

• Teamwork: Collaborate with peers.

• Time Management: Handle coursework and farm activities effectively.

Hands-On Experience

• Volunteering/Working on Farms: Gain practical experience on farms.

• 4-H/FFA Programs: Participate in relevant livestock programs.

• Facility Visits: Visit swine production facilities.

This quiz covers essential terminology and practices related to livestock, specifically focusing on swine. Participants will explore various swine breeds, nutritional requirements, and the significance of swine production in agriculture. Test your understanding of the swine industry's role in global markets.