Ohio Swine Day Highlights Hoop Finishing Structures

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A hoop finishing structure is a relatively low-cost investment that can house 150 to 200 hogs in a single pen. See it at Ohio Swine Day, Aug. 28, at Ohio State's Don Scott Animal Center, Columbus.

Jay Harmon, assistant professor at Iowa State University, will discuss research, performance expectations and costs involved with a hoop structure. The pen is deep-bedded or straw-packed, requiring little maintenance. Farmers can use anything from cornstalks to hay for bedding.

"In the winter, the warmth from the composting keeps pigs warm," says OSU animal scientist Steve Moeller. "The deep bedding takes care of manure and absorbs liquids. And the hogs are fed and watered on a concrete slab located at the end of the building."

Veterinarian Tony Forshey will discuss porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome, a catastrophic disease in swine nurseries and finishing facilities.

The economic outlook for the swine industry will be the focus of a talk by Steve Meyer of the National Pork Producers Council.

The free program, including lunch, will be from 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For details, call (614) 688-3686, (614) 292-1782 or (800) 398-7675.