Effective selection of gilts is primary driver for sow herd productivity

摘要

THE purpose of this article is to highlight the key components of a commercial off-site gilt development unit designed and managed to consistently meet the target of identifying 70% of gilts entered as "select" and breeding eligible. "Select" in thiscontext indicates that gilts have a recorded heat-no-serve event in the GDU and a known weight at HNS. Using this information, gilts can be shipped to the downstream sow farm on a weekly basis, with the expectation that all gilts will undergo a 14-day acclimation period before being bred at the next observed heat.