Abstract: Pens for smooth production

Type and Average of Pigs on the Farm

6,400 grower-finishers.

Farming System

Intensive production system.

Description and Evaluation of the Good Practice

This farm renovated its pig houses in 2020. Pens measure approximately 3.5 m × 4.5 m, allowing pigs to avoid conflicts. At the end of the production cycle (135 kg), each pen houses a maximum of 13 pigs, providing 1.2 m² per pig. A long trough along the pen’s side allows all pigs to eat simultaneously. Flooring is divided into three zones: 40% solid concrete at the front, 30% partly slatted with 10% drainage in the middle, and 30% fully slatted at the rear. An irrigation pipe above the slatted area keeps it damp, discouraging pigs from lying there. The solid area is covered daily with a 2.5 cm layer of sawdust, providing a comfortable resting space. Enrichment includes a wooden stick and a rubber plate. Sawdust does not block the slurry pits, which use vacuum technology. Slurry is used as fertilizer on nearby fields.

Farm Context

• Pigs
  Genetics not specified
  Pen layout supports pigs in avoiding conflicts and using designated areas for resting, eating, and dunging.
• Environmental Enrichment
  Wooden stick and rubber plate per pen. Daily sawdust layer (~2.5 cm).
• Housing and Management Characteristics
  Space allowance: 0.75–1.0 m²/pig (30–110 kg), 1.1 m²/pig (110–135 kg), 1.2 m²/pig (>135 kg). 13 pigs per pen.
  Pen design: 3.5 m × 4.5 m
  Floor type: 40% solid floor, 30% slats with 10% drainage, 30% basic slats with wider openings. Partly slatted with provision of sawdust.
• Management Practices
  Pens cleaned from corridor. Good air quality. Sick or injured pigs moved to dedicated pens. Compulsive biters are culled.
  Pen needs to be wide to allow pigs to escape or move away from the others. Therefore, the shape should be at least 0,70 times of the length of the pen.

Economic Analysis

Investment support: 30% of maximum approved building costs (may not match actual costs). Animal welfare compensation: €70/animal unit for farms with >95% pigs slaughtered with intact tails. Support covers bedding, enrichment, labor, etc.

Environmental Analysis

Slurry production: 20,000 m³/year, used as fertilizer. GHG and ammonia emissions not measured due to cool climate. Low ammonia evaporation due to solid flooring and limited slurry pit area. Ventilation: Skov underpressure system through roof. Irrigation line improves hygiene in defecation area.

Replicable Benefits and Relevance for Other EU Countries

This flooring and space concept does not significantly increase workload compared to fully slatted systems. Cleaning is often done from the central corridor during routine checks. Widely used in Finnish pig farms of all sizes. To implement this GP, farms may need low-interest loans and support schemes. Existing barns must be assessed for suitability. Pen division and flooring changes (plastic to concrete) may be required. Ventilation and water systems may need upgrades. Long troughs are essential for liquid feeding systems.