While apps have replaced paper records and smart controllers allow for remote adjustments, the fundamental work of pig care remains manual. For many contract growers, today’s technology offers a welcome sense of ‘peace of mind,’ but it has yet to provide the financial return or labor relief needed to offset the modern operational squeeze.
“Until there is a robot doing chores for me or a camera’s telling me if I even need to do chores, I’m not sure what could replace the daily tasks of a human in the barn,” says Jason Klein, a Michigan pig farmer.
Five contract growers weigh in on equipment and technology in the barn.
Top ROI Investments
“I think it comes standard now, but the water meters connected to the EDGE control system have helped us mitigate water waste from leaking or broken nipples. Being able to identify higher-than-normal water usage helps point us in the direction of an issue if we missed it while walking through the barn.” – Wyatt Clemens
“Smart controllers and alarms that I can operate from my phone have been amazing. Remote technology has been very helpful. I can set everything from my phone and monitor things at any time. It is very helpful when there is extreme weather and it allows you to make changes more quickly.” – Aaron Juergens
“We have been using AI (artificial intelligence) in many different applications in our operating systems and the business/farm, and accounting. AI is a huge timesaver on many applications, but it has been a big help on gathering information and putting together my 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year business plans for myself and lenders.” – Bryan Bennett
Equipment That’s Built to Last
“All our feeders and waters are stainless steel, wet/dry feeders. If the whole barn could be stainless, that would be great.” – Joe Kendrick
“I operate all major brands, and they have all held up well: AP, Choretime, Hog Slat and Marting.” – Aaron Juergens
“The Thorp feeders of any style have proven to pass the test of time. I have both wet/dry shelf feeders and tube feeders. Both seem like they could last forever. I have airstream TC-5 controllers in my barns. They are simple and durable. I almost never have trouble with them. Lighting is the only thing that seems to cause trouble and it’s super rare that it’s a problem. Most of the time it’s just a blown fuse.” – Jason Klein
