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Explore the world of a Swine Producer, from feeding and auctions to market research and animal breeding. Discover the skills needed, salary potential, work environment, and steps to becoming a successful Swine Producer. Get ready to embark on a fulfilling career in swine production!
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Agricultural Careers Swine Producer By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Trisha Stephens Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START
What does a Swine Producer do? • Feeding and feed formulation • Perform Pork Quality Assurance tests • Attend livestock auctions, graded feeder pig sales, and buying stations • Seek out and find markets • Develop and maintain good working relationships with suppliers, packers and processors • Constantly monitor market price as prices can vary greatly from day to day • Artificially inseminate or breed sows on a schedule • Keep detailed records • Read, research, and generally stay up-to-date
What kind of qualities and skills are needed? • Able to handle and manage live animals • Be responsible, patience and organized • Computer skills are greatly needed • Ability to withstand extreme weather conditions • Heavy lifting and moving is required
What is my salary? The salary varies for year to year for any type of production. However, swine producers earned anywhere from $20,000 to $45,000 this past year.
What are the conditions of the work environment? • Most work is done in a hog barn • Work will be done in a dirty environment with foul orders • Some travel to and from sales and shows may be required • Outdoor work making feed and feeding in various weather conditions
How can I become a Swine Producer? • Obtain employment, intern, or volunteer on a swine farm. • Take classes in biology science, animal science, and math. • Agriculture classes in high school related to livestock production. • Participate in FFA or 4-H livestock events.
Related Organizations National Pork Producers Council 10664 Justin Drive Urbandale, IA 50322 Internet: www.nppc.org The National Swine Improvement Federation 203 Polk Hall, Box 7621 North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC 27695-7621 Internet: http://mark.asci.ncsu.edu