Preparing for the Storm
Winter in Minnesota has been mild so far, with just over five inches of snow—but that’s about to change. A major blizzard is on the way, and we’re expecting upwards of eight inches of snow. As farmers, preparation is key. We ensure our pigs have plenty of feed, make sure the tractor is ready with the snow blower and plow, and stay warm inside. Thankfully, our generator keeps the barns running if the power goes out, ensuring the pigs remain safe and comfortable.
This blizzard also serves as a reminder of why our pigs live in barns. If we lived in a utopian world, I wouldn’t mind raising pigs outdoors. But the reality is, farming in Minnesota comes with extreme weather conditions that make indoor housing the best option for both animal well-being and efficiency.
Why Barns Are the Best Option for Our Pigs
1. Minnesota’s Extreme Weather
From bitter cold blizzards with -20°F temperatures and 50 mph winds to humid 90°F summer days, our weather is unpredictable and harsh. Pigs struggle to adjust to these fluctuations, making controlled environments crucial. Inside the barns, we provide heat in the winter and cooling systems, including fans and sprinklers, in the summer. Unlike humans, pigs don’t sweat, so climate control is essential for their comfort and health.
2. Pig Genetics and Meat Quality
Not all pig genetics are suited for outdoor living. While some heritage breeds may fare better outside, the pigs we raise are bred for the high-quality pork that consumers and meat processors expect. These genetics thrive in a barn environment, where they receive consistent nutrition and care.
3. Sustainability and Resource Efficiency
Raising pigs indoors is more efficient than outdoor systems. It requires less feed and water while also allowing us to recycle manure as a natural fertilizer for our crops. Barns have deep pits that store manure, which we apply to fields as a replacement for synthetic fertilizers. This is sustainability in action—using natural resources efficiently to benefit both livestock and crop production.
4. Protecting Our Pigs from Disease and Predators
Keeping pigs in barns helps protect them from predators like coyotes, which pose a risk in southern Minnesota. Additionally, biosecurity is a top priority. Pigs are vulnerable to airborne viruses that can spread through birds and rodents. Our barns use air filtration systems to reduce the risk of disease, ensuring our pigs stay healthy without the need for excessive medications. Indoor housing also eliminates issues like mange, worms, and insect bites, further improving their well-being.
5. Clean Water, High-Quality Nutrition, and Veterinary Care
Pigs in barns have constant access to clean water and air. We work closely with animal nutritionists to develop precise feed rations that meet their needs at every stage of growth. Over six months, our pigs consume nine different feed formulas, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients.
Veterinary care is another key part of our farm’s commitment to animal well-being. Our veterinarians go above and beyond—reviewing lab results at all hours and checking in even while on vacation. Their dedication helps us provide the best possible care for our animals, something that often goes unnoticed but deserves recognition.
Telling Our Story
Unfortunately, the hard work and dedication of pork producers often go untold. Farmers work year-round to ensure the highest standards of animal care, food safety, and sustainability. It’s time we share these stories so consumers understand why modern pork production is built on science, efficiency, and responsibility.
Raising pigs indoors isn’t just about convenience—it’s about doing what’s best for the animals, the environment, and the people who depend on high-quality pork.
