K-State’s new swine nursery provides researchers with pristine facilities to further piglet nutrition.
The room is filled with gentle oinks and squeals, creating a cacophony of cuteness. Little pink piggies bustle about joyfully as caretakers track their health and nutrition in K-State’s brand-new swine nursery.
K-State animal scientists are thrilled that this facility, located on the north side of the Manhattan campus, will aid in improving profitability and efficiency for swine producers in Kansas and beyond.
Why do we need a swine nursery?
The nursery serves as a hub for studying optimal management practices for nursery pigs. Researchers will estimate nutrient requirements and evaluate feed ingredients to promote healthy growth.
They’ll be determining the proper levels of amino acids to include in their diet and studying the pigs’ response to different energy levels to see how the pigs grow. “For example, we will observe their response to different feed ingredients we might use in a nursery, such as specialty protein products or lactose sources,” said Jason Woodworth, a research professor in K-State’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry.
Why does K-State need more “play” pens?
K-State’s previous facility was built in the 1970s and was missing the modern advancements found in today’s swine industry. The new facility features more pens for better nutrition and management research, along with four water lines that support water-additive research. Equipped with industry-standard tools and systems, the new nursey is an important step toward advancements in swine research and meat optimization.
With this exciting development, K-State is not only advancing agricultural science — it’s also ensuring a future with more cute piggies and, of course, more tasty bacon.
Curated from: KSU opens new swine nursery facility
Written by: Kate Ellwood
