What farms that have already moved to free farrowing systems have learned about pig welfare, piglet survival, and commercial viability.
Early adopter farms provide real-world evidence that free farrowing is commercially viable with appropriate management and infrastructure. These farms demonstrate that the welfare improvement for sows - freedom to turn around, build nests, and interact more naturally with piglets - can be achieved without unacceptable increases in piglet crushing mortality when pig-appropriate housing design is used. The experience of pioneer farms is being documented and shared to help mainstream producers understand the management requirements of transition. This real-world evidence is more persuasive to farmers than theoretical analysis.