Successful breeding herd management begins with winning breeding practices. Numerous human and environmental factors, in addition to the sow’s own genetic potential, affect sow breeding efficiency and subsequent farrowing and litter size. When correctly applied, artificial insemination offers economic advantages and improves genetics.
WHEN & WHERE
The workshop will be Dec. 11 and 12 at the Southern Research and Outreach Center, Waseca. Classroom instruction will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, and hands-on instruction in the swine research facilities will be from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday, Dec. 12. To maximize student learning and understanding, the hands-on session incorporates numerous activities relating to material covered in the classroom portion of the course. Registration is due Nov. 21.
WHO WILL BENEFIT
This two-day workshop is designed to give participants an increased understanding of the factors involved to successfully breed females using modern artificial insemination techniques. The course is appropriate for people with a limited knowledge of breeding swine as well as experienced pork producers who wish to review the basics and stay abreast on recent developments.
University of Minnesota faculty and swine industry experts provide instruction for the course. The first registration from a farm is $100. Additional participants from the same production system may register for $50 each. Individuals wishing to participate in multiple courses should call Minnesota Pork Board for a reduced fee schedule. The fee includes learning materials, lunches, breaks, instructor fees and biosecurity clothing for hands-on training sessions. Overnight lodging is the participant’s responsibility.
WORKSHOP TOPICS
Anatomy and Physiology: Hormonal patterns, ovulation and pregnancy regulation, gilt/sow reproductive tract characteristics
Heat Detection and Breeding: Insemination timing, improvingestrus detection, breeding herdefficiency, fertility factors, number of services, catheters
Intrauterine Insemination: Demonstration of technique,differences between conventionalA.I. and intrauterine insemination
Sow Nutrition: Feeding the sow for productivity andlongevity, sow versus gilt nutrition,effect on puberty and litterperformance, feeding to achievedesired body condition, use of fiber
Semen: Handling, storage, extension, shelf life
Reproductive Problem Solving: Open discussion ofspecific on-farm reproductive issues
The Swine Training Program is a series of courses that cover various aspects and phases of swine production. These unique courses have both classroom lectures and hands-on activities. Owner/operators, managers, veteran employees and new hires will all benefit from these training programs. University of Minnesota educators and swine industry experts provide the course instruction and materials. Course locations for the Swine Training Program courses are at the U of M Research and Outreach Centers in Waseca and Morris.
