Abstract

Many small independent pork producers have shown interest in low-cost alternative production systems for raising market pigs. One low-cost alternative production housing type that is gaining popularity is the bedded hoop structure. Hoop structures are primarily used as finishing facilities, but may also be used for gestation housing, breeding and isolation facilities, gilt development and bedding storage. Recently, a new concept called wean-to-finish has been adopted by the swine industry. This unique approach is the adaptation of technologies used in the nursery and grow/finish phase into a single-stage production system. Bedded hoop structures may work as a wean-to-finish housing system, if nursery pigs can efficiently grow throughout the various seasonal temperature extremes. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the growth performance of nursery pigs in hoop structures compared with those raised in confinement nurseries.

Keywords: Animal Science

How to Cite:

Larson, M. E. & Honeyman, M. S., (2001) “The Effect of Housing System and Physical Environment on Post-weaning Pig Performance”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports 2000(1).