Raising pigs on pasture is becoming more and more common, but does have its unique challenges. Pigs naturally will root in your pastures, making it a challenge to keep them in the same spot for long periods of time, while also maintaining a healthy sward of grass. Some producers are using this to their advantage however, taking advantage of this natural behavior to rehabilitate pastures. They do this by allowing pigs to root, moving the pigs to a new area, and then following up with a seeding in the area the pigs have turned over. Pigs can get nutrition from this pasture, but will also need additional supplementation. Cornell Small Farms Program (http://smallfarms.cornell.edu/) has created a series of videos with great content regarding swine production, check out the video below.
Also check out this great article called “Profitable Pork: Strategies for Hog Producer” available through Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE).
Are you interested in learning more? Contact Ashley anytime at arp253@cornell.edu or (518) 272-4210. Also, don’t forget about our upcoming Beginner Pig Producer Meeting on May 22, 2014 from 6:00-8:00pm in Hoosick Falls (https://blogs.cornell.edu/agnewscenter/events/).
