Welcome to another episode of our hog farming podcast. Today, we have a special guest, Arian de Bekker from Neogen, joining us to discuss an often underestimated but critical topic: rodent control. In the world of hog farming, we’ve mastered biosecurity when it comes to people and vehicle movement. However, the battle against rodents demands a different set of knowledge, skills, and discipline.
Segment 1: Understanding Rodents
- What exactly are rodents, and why are they a concern for hog farms?
- The three major dangers posed by rodents: disease transmission, structural damage, and feed loss and contamination.
- Startling facts about rodents’ appetite and the financial implications for hog farmers.
Segment 2: Building Your Rodent Control Process
- The four essential steps to establish a robust rodent control process: Prevent, Identify, Execute, Monitor (PIEM).
- Beginning with prevention: What measures should hog farmers take to proactively deter rodents from infiltrating their barns?
Segment 3: Identifying a Rodent Infestation
- How to recognize signs of a rodent infestation within your hog barn.
- The importance of early detection and the role it plays in preventing further damage and risks.
Segment 4: Executing a Rodent Control Plan
- Developing a comprehensive plan to eradicate rodents from your hog facility.
- The various strategies and methods available for effective rodent control.
- Considerations for the ethical treatment of rodents during the control process.
Segment 5: Monitoring Progress
- Why ongoing monitoring is crucial in the fight against rodents.
- How to gauge the success of your rodent control efforts.
- Adjustments and adaptations based on monitoring outcomes.
Segment 6: Addressing Secondary Poisoning
- Exploring the concept of secondary poisoning and its implications.
- Ensuring the safety of non-target animals and the environment during rodent control efforts.
Conclusion: Rodents may be small, but their impact on hog farming can be enormous. Biosecurity isn’t complete without a robust rodent control plan. Thanks to our guest, Arian de Bekker, for shedding light on this vital aspect of hog farming. Remember, prevention, early identification, effective execution, and continuous monitoring are your keys to a rodent-free and biosecure hog barn. Stay tuned for more informative episodes on hog farming, and as always, prioritize the well-being of your hogs and the success of your operation.
Biography
Arian de Bekker has been actively involved in Canadian livestock production since 1999, when he and his family arrived in Manitoba.
Originally from the Netherlands, Arian added to his practical agricultural knowledge and experience by working in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the United States and eventually Canada.
His education also started in the Netherlands, followed by Berkshire College of Agriculture in the UK and he obtained his Masters Degree at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.
Dairy farming, crop production and eventually being involved in pork production allows him to express his interest in agricultural business development, previously with MS Schippers and Farmers Depot and currently through his work at the Neogen Corporation.
Arian is passionate about helping others succeed, organizing, being involved in community and a local co-operative of independent pork producers. Family however is always first and foremost. Arian and his wife Jane have 4 children and two grandchildren.
