FARM VISIT ▶▶▶


The choice of straw for gestat- ing sows has welfare benefits, even though it is simpler without slats.


place. All sows, for example, are being weighed by default be- fore and after the gestation barn and water intake is also being digitally recorded. Aluwé says, “A logical next step is connecting data, analyse them even better and make them practically useable. We also focus on techniques to follow up on certain aspects, such as the litter process. It could also contribute to the improvement of the technical results.” A new combination project is focusing on decreasing heat stress, both for gestating sows and heavy finishers. Several


heat stress reducing systems are being compared, drip cooling among them. Researchers are also looking into adjustments of the feed and water regimes. The aim is to become energy neutral in time. This year, the transition is made to energy-efficient led lighting. The use of a heat pump in combination with solar panels is evaluated within a research project. Aluwé says, “Furthermore, we keep focusing on profitable and sustainable management, while never losing sight of animal health and meat quality.”


Weaned pigs are kept on a pre- dominantly closed floor area.


24 ▶PIG PROGRESS | Volume 36, No. 8, 2020


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