The University of Minnesota Southern Research and Outreach Center at Waseca is offering the Farrowing Management Course to address pre- and post-farrowing and piglet care from birth to weaning.

Program speakers will provide ways to improve daily practices and fine-tune management to enhance performance, animal well-being and reduce costs.

Classroom instruction is from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 9, with hands-on instruction in the swine research facilities from 8 a.m. to noon on April 10. Registration is due April 3.

The University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center at Morris is offering Alternative Breeding & Gestation Management April 27-28.

This course covers rearing replacement females, breeding systems and mating options, managing pregnancy, preparing for farrowing and sow health challenges and management. Experiences with alternative systems, such as outdoor hoop barns, will be highlighted.

Classroom instruction will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 27, and hands-on instruction in the swine research facilities will be from 8 a.m. to noon April 28. Registration is due April 20.

Course instructors are from the University of Minnesota and private industry. Each program costs $100/person, which covers materials, breaks, meals and biosecurity clothing.

Contact the Minnesota Pork Board at (800) 537-7675 for more information or to register.