Sustainability A MULTIFACETED APPORACH IN THE HOG INDUSTRY Brad Kluver, Swine Production Specialist
When we hear the word "sustainability" in agriculture, our first thoughts often turn to financial sustainability or generational sustainability as farms work to pass the torch. Farmers have always viewed their work as being stewards of the land and livestock, ensuring it remains viable and productive for the coming years. However, consumer and public perception focusing more on environmental sustainability and carbon footprint has created new landscapes to navigate in the agricultural world, especially on the livestock side. While this has introduced more hurdles, it has also opened new avenues for diversifying income sources. The National Pork Board has partnered with a group called Eocene to create a Farm Impact Report showcasing how pork producers in Minnesota and other states are investing in environmental resources. This report provides a baseline metric and guidance on cost-share and incentive-based practices that farms can implement. Even aspects like split application (Spring and Fall) for manure can qualify for incentives. At CFS, we aspire to be a part of the sustainability equation alongside the farms we work with. First and foremost, we adhere to biosecurity practices to support herd health. Disposable boots are worn on the farm, shoes and floormats are disinfected, and feed trucks are washed daily. All this and more are done to prevent the spread of disease from one farm to another. We continue to work with other nutritional companies to stay well-versed in feed additives that provide both performance and immune function benefits. As we emphasize sustainability, animal health should be front and center. Whether considering environmental or financial sustainability, higher mortality rates in livestock are detrimental to both. Prevention and promotion are two areas of focus to reduce higher mortality rates. CFS will maintain its high level of biosecurity when on the farm and when manufacturing or delivering feed to play our part in prevention. We will also continue to provide insight into products in the marketplace that help promote better performance and immune response.
On behalf of myself and the rest of the feed team, we are committed to being a partner in the sustainability of the farms we work with, no matter how you define it.
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