October 2004

This 39th edition of the Blueprint series from National Hog Farmer provides an in-depth look at the pros and cons of a number of disease avoidance and management programs.

For starters, production system pioneer D.L. (Hank) Harris, DVM, of Iowa State University reviews the dramatic technological changes that have taken place in the last few decades. He recalls the birth of Isowean and multi-site systems, concepts which he helped develop in the ’80s. Included is an eightstep plan that shows how multi-site systems eliminate infectious agents.

Depopulation-repopulation expert Paul Yeske, DVM, Swine Vet Center, St. Peter, MN, provides a detailed perspective on cleanup strategies including when to depopulate, the planning process and expected outcome.

ISU veterinarian Locke Karriker addresses closed herds, a subject receiving renewed attention as producers strive to focus on disease and bolstering profitability.

Finally, University of Georgia associate professor David Reeves, DVM, outlines 15 valuable herd health lessons.

Blueprint Features: Herd Health Strategies