Inside the Helix

Precision livestock farming can assist producers with the increased production demand and decrease resources. Lexi Meister, nucleus support with DNA Genetics, discusses the benefits and opportunities of precision livestock farming. Using these new technologies decrease subjectivity and increase accuracy of production.

A fertile boar is an important component of any swine operation. In this episode, Dr. Ashley Hartman, research coordinator with DNA Genetics, explains her research focused on the terminal Duroc boar. Through her work, she's exploring pre-production boar management and its impact on future semen quality.

Biosecurity protocols must be strictly followed in swine operations to prevent disease outbreaks. Having a truck wash system is an important component of a robust biosecurity plan. Ryan Strain, director of transportation with Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, explains what swine producers should consider as part of their truck wash protocol.

Brazil is the world's fourth largest pork producing country. Recently, Glauber Machado, a Brazilian businessman, veterinarian and DNA Genetics distributor, was in the United States and visited with "Inside the Helix." He discussed reasons behind the industry growth, challenges and opportunities for Brazilian producers.

For many swine producers, gilts are the future of their farms. Ensuring gilts reach their full potential is key in overall gilt development. In this episode, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham, veterinarian and director of health with DNA Genetics and Pillen Family Farms, describes DNA's research focused on stocking density. She also explains the impact stocking density has on the timing of estrus and heat checking accuracy.