Farm Journal Smart Farming

Smart Farming

From drones and data to sensors and science, Smart Farming is a persistent management strategy that empowers farmers to collect, visualize and confidently act upon relevant insights. In turn, farmers can optimize efficiency and resources despite environmental uncertainties and remain resilient in the production of food, feed and fiber.

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Precision Livestock Farming Technology on Swine Farms: What Do Americans Think?
Precision Livestock Farming Technology on Swine Farms: What Do Americans Think?
By Michigan State University

We live in a world where there is a disconnect between swine producers and pork consumers. This makes it important to understand how the public might view changes to farming practices before they happen.

Barn Technology and Big Data:  Something Worth Doing
Barn Technology and Big Data: Something Worth Doing
By Dennis DiPietre and Lance Mulberry

“Anything worth doing, is worth doing badly.” This quote is a reminder that any undertaking that is important cannot wait for ideal circumstances before proceeding. Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.

5 Things to Consider Before Adding Technology in the Swine Barn
5 Things to Consider Before Adding Technology in the Swine Barn
By North Carolina State University

Precision livestock farming technologies are rapidly being developed and increasingly available in the commercial market. With so many technologies to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which ones to invest in.

Hog Facilities

April is Good Time for Swine Barn Ventilation Inspection and Maintenance
April is Good Time for Swine Barn Ventilation Inspection and Maintenance
BY IOWA PORK INDUSTRY CENTER | April 18, 2024

Properly functioning ventilation systems are vital to today’s pork production facilities, and following a regular process for maintaining their operation can pay big economic dividends.

Precision Livestock Farming Technology on Swine Farms: What Do Americans Think?
Precision Livestock Farming Technology on Swine Farms: What Do Americans Think?
BY MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY | April 9, 2024

We live in a world where there is a disconnect between swine producers and pork consumers. This makes it important to understand how the public might view changes to farming practices before they happen.

Hog Genetics

Data Makes the Difference: PIC Seeks Answers to Environmental Impact of Genetics
Data Makes the Difference: PIC Seeks Answers to Environmental Impact of Genetics
BY JENNIFER SHIKE | April 24, 2024

"I can't tell you if I can fit a metric ton of carbon equivalents in my front pocket," says Chris Hostetler. Carbon is not visible, so data is critical to back up carbon asset claims for innovations coming to market.

How Valuing Carbon Could Open Doors for Pork Producers
How Valuing Carbon Could Open Doors for Pork Producers
BY JENNIFER SHIKE | April 24, 2024

Pork producers often think about meat as the only commodity they produce. But Chris Hostetler at the National Pork Board argues they produce so much more and deserve to see benefits for their efforts.

Hog Nutrition

Light Versus Heavy Barrow Fecal Microbiome at Finishing
Light Versus Heavy Barrow Fecal Microbiome at Finishing
BY RYAN SAMUEL | April 18, 2024

Understanding the differences in the microbiome between light and heavy market hogs may provide insights into optimizing growth performance, feed efficiency and sustainability of the swine industry.

5 Ways to Improve Sow Longevity
5 Ways to Improve Sow Longevity
BY LAURA GREINER - IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY | March 27, 2024

The potential for a successful sow starts well before the sow is first bred. Here are five ways you can improve sow longevity by focusing on the gilt from weaning until the time of first breeding.

Body Condition Targets to Optimize Sow Well-Being, Reproduction
Body Condition Targets to Optimize Sow Well-Being, Reproduction
BY NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY | March 25, 2024

Keeping sows in ideal body condition can be a balancing act. New research from North Carolina State University outlines sow condition targets to minimize body lesions and maximize productivity.