Timely reminder

Pig farmers are being reminded to check carefully the set ventilation rates of pens during cold weather following routine inter-batch pressure-washing and disinfection.

Comparisons of water consumption by sows in freedom-style farrowing pens with sows in conventional crates has highlighted some significant differences. Sows in free-style farrowing pens are normally provided with water-bowls whereas sows in crates tend to have nipple or bite-type drinkers.

We are pleased to be shortlisted for the NPA Allied Member of the Year.

Remote monitoring of piggeries has proved to be a big advantage in these days of lockdown and social distancing. It enabled a ventilation problem on a Midlands finishing unit to be solved without a visit.

The 2019 Nick Bird Award has been presented at Harper Adams University, to Olivia Hartshorn, from Staffordshire, for her dissertation on ventilation design in pig finisher houses and its impact on animal performance.

A huge increase in demand for freedom-style farrowing pens has been reported by Staffordshire-based ARM Buildings.  The pig-housing company will have installed between 700 and 800 places by the end of the year, says their environmental specialist, Tim Miller.

In December we said farewell to John Gosnell, who retired after 50 years.

Drop-out window panels will automatically open in an emergency when normal ventilation is interfered with, safeguarding the health and welfare of pigs.

ROGER SMITH RETIRES

Andrew Brittain, ARM’s operations director writes the following tribute:

"Christmas 2019 saw the retirement of Roger Smith, ARM Buildings’ sales and contracts director.

Well-known in the industry for his no-nonsense, open and honest approach, his retirement will leave a huge gap. Just as Roger will be missed by our customers in the pig industry, here at ARM we will undoubtedly miss his presence, wealth of experience, knowledge and sense of humour!

Unlike other countries which experience hot weather regularly, pig housing in the UK does not usually have any cooling elements such as misters, so our pigs are likely to feel the brunt of the temperature.