Researchers are seeking to enhance welfare in the pig industry and are inviting farmers and industry professionals to participate in a free workshop at Harper Adams University in January. The Farming Futures: A Good Life for Pigs event, organized by Dr. Holly Vickery and Dr. Laura Palczynski, is open to all individuals involved in the industry, including farm managers, owners, workers, pig veterinarians, nutrition advisors, and industry representatives.
Scheduled for Friday, January 10, interested individuals can register for the event on the university’s website. The workshop will focus on engaging discussions with participants to gather their perspectives, along with presentations on current farm animal welfare objectives in the UK and innovative solutions to achieve these goals. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the strategies employed by the Harper Pig Unit and explore how technological advancements from the dairy sector can be adapted for the pig industry. A complimentary lunch will also be provided for all participants.
In addition to showcasing the Future Farm at Harper Adams, the workshop aims to gather feedback on how research from academic institutions like Harper Adams can be practically implemented in the industry. Dr. Vickery emphasized the importance of aligning research with industry needs to ensure its relevance and impact. By understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by farmers, researchers can prioritize future studies effectively.
The ultimate goal is to identify strategies that not only enhance pig welfare but also provide practical benefits for industry stakeholders. Dr. Vickery highlighted the importance of finding win-win solutions that improve welfare while also offering time-saving, cost-effective, and user-friendly advantages for farmers and staff. By demonstrating the business value of welfare strategies, researchers hope to encourage widespread adoption and implementation in real-world settings.
Dr. Palczynski underscored the necessity of translating research findings into actionable strategies to improve pig welfare. The workshop will provide participants with a platform to share their insights on the feasibility and potential impact of research initiatives, as well as the support needed to facilitate their implementation in practice. By engaging industry professionals in the conversation, researchers aim to bridge the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications in the field.
To drive meaningful change in pig welfare, it is essential to collaborate with industry stakeholders and leverage their expertise to inform research and development efforts. The workshop at Harper Adams University offers a unique opportunity for farmers, veterinarians, and industry representatives to contribute their perspectives and shape the future of pig welfare initiatives. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between academia and industry, researchers hope to create sustainable solutions that benefit both animals and stakeholders in the pig industry.
In conclusion, the Farming Futures: A Good Life for Pigs workshop at Harper Adams University presents a valuable opportunity for industry professionals to engage in meaningful discussions, share their experiences, and contribute to the advancement of pig welfare practices. By aligning research with industry needs and fostering collaboration between academia and industry, researchers aim to develop practical strategies that enhance pig welfare and promote sustainable practices in the industry. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of the conversation and help shape the future of pig welfare in the UK.