Breeding/Gestation Barn

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The Breeding Barn is where sows are bred as they come into "heat."  The Gestation Barn is where pregnant sows live until they are ready to give birth or "farrow."

We breed 55 sows per week.  90% are sows, 10% are gilts or females that have never had a litter before.

 

  • Sows have a 21 day estrus cycle.  Their gestation period is 114 days.  They are very consistent and predictable.
  • Sows usually have 5-6 litters in their lifetime.  A few will have 9 or 10 litters.
  • Artificial Insemination is used 100%.  There are 3 main benefits:  We can improve our genetics faster and more consistently.  It is healthier for the sow and safer for the employees.  It saves time and is more efficient.
  • The semen is collected, processed and packaged at Birchwood Genetics and private labeled for our semen distribution company, Belvarken A.I. Center.
  • The in-house boar is needed for A.I.  Pheromones in his mouth stimulate the sow’s hormones and she draws in the semen for fertilization.
  • We have a conception rate of 90-95%.  We do ultrasound pregnancy tests on all bred sows.  This is the same technology as at the doctor’s office.
  • The sow stall is used because it is the safest way to house sows in a building.  Exposing the sows to the outdoor elements and predators can be very harsh.
  • Our industry is vigorously researching for the new best way to house sows.
  • Our sow comfort is measured by 1-health, 2-mortality and 3-productivity.
  • Consistent feed is supplied twice daily with no fighting over food.
  • Fresh water is re-supplied numerous times per day.
  • To control the environment, heat is added in winter and air conditioning is on in the summer.  For gestating sows 68-70 degrees is great.
  • We have an alarm system in the barns to monitor temperature, water and electric.  If the power goes out we have a large automatic generator that runs the whole farm.  We have run on generator for as long as 7 days a few years ago.
  • All sow activities/histories like breeding, births and health care are kept on a computerized record keeping system.
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