The following publications cover topics related to Swine Extension. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Routine Animal Mortality Management Options in Missouri
Revised
Law requires that the body of an animal be disposed within 24 hours after death. Learn how to acceptably transport and dispose of animal carcasses.
Inbreeding: Its Meaning, Uses and Effects on Farm Animals
Reviewed
Mating schemes of animals are classified as either inbreeding or outbreeding. Mating closely related animals is inbreeding. Outbreeding is mating less closely related animals, but people disagree about where to draw the line. Learn more in this guide.
Swine Care, Selection and Showmanship
Reviewed
Guide for youth on swine projects: setting goals, selecting pigs, providing care, ensuring proper nutrition, and mastering showmanship techniques.
Break-even Hauling Distance: Tractor-Pulled Manure Spreaders
Reviewed
This publication guides livestock producers in calculating the maximum distance manure can be hauled using tractor-pulled spreaders without incurring additional costs.
Feeding Organic and Inorganic Sources of Trace Minerals for Swine Production
Reviewed
Explore the benefits of zinc, copper, and selenium in swine diets, comparing organic and inorganic sources to enhance growth and reproductive health.
Evaluating Vitamin Premixes for Swine
Reviewed
Compare swine vitamin premixes by cost, composition, and effectiveness to support balanced, economical feed formulation on your farm.
Care of Pigs From Farrowing to Weaning
Reviewed
The most critical period in the life cycle of a pig is from birth to weaning. Visit our website to learn about the Care of Pigs From Farrowing to Weaning.
Herd Management for Disease Prevention
Reviewed
This publication provides guidance on preventing disease in swine herds through biosecurity measures, sanitation, and immunization programs.
Laboratory Analysis of Manure
Reviewed
Laboratory analysis of manure determines nutrient levels—nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium—and moisture content for effective fertilizer use.
Swine Manure Management Systems in Missouri
Reviewed
Learn about swine manure management systems, methods of application, environmental regulations, and strategies to maximize nutrient use and minimize pollution.
Phosphorus Best Management Practices for Biosolids and Other Organic Residuals
Reviewed
Learn practices to manage phosphorus in biosolids, minimize environmental impact, and protect water quality using updated nutrient management strategies.
Artificial Insemination in Swine: Breeding the Female
Reviewed
The use of artificial insemination in the U.S has skyrocketed. Visit our website to view our Artificial Insemination in Swine: Breeding the Female article.
Optimizing Fertilizer Value of Manure from Slurry Hog Finishing Operations
Reviewed
See recommendations for applying manure on corn, soybeans or fescue. Learn how to maximize slurry manure’s value and assess its storage and application cost.
Swine Diet Manipulation to Minimize Environmental Impacts
Reviewed
Guidance on adjusting swine diets—phase feeding, enzyme use, synthetic amino acids—to reduce nutrient waste and lower environmental impacts.
Antibiotics and Other Additives for Swine: Food Safety Considerations
Reviewed
Learn about antibiotics and additives in swine production, their benefits for growth and feed efficiency, and best practices for safe and effective use.
Purchasing a Herd Boar for Commercial Swine Production
Reviewed
Selecting the right herd boar is crucial for enhancing genetics in commercial swine production. This guide outlines key steps for successful boar acquisition.
Herd Health Programs for Swine Seedstock Production
Reviewed
This guide outlines good health practices for a seedstock swine herd. Preventive practices are emphasized. Specifics vary from herd to herd and are too individualized to address in this guide. Specifics should be worked out with the herd's veterinarian.
Heritability and Its Use in Animal Breeding
Reviewed
Heritability has a large influence on livestock performance. Visit our website to learn about Heritability and Its Use in Animal Breeding.
Calibration of Lagoon Irrigating Equipment
Reviewed
This publication provides guidelines for calibrating lagoon irrigation systems to ensure efficient nutrient application and prevent runoff.
Agricultural Phosphorus and Water Quality
Reviewed
This guide demonstrates the complexities of reducing losses of phosphorus from agricultural land and the range of options available to help reach water quality goals.
Manure Management in Hoop Structures
Reviewed
Learn how to manage manure in swine hoop barns with proper bedding, handling methods, and solid manure storage practices.
Managing Nitrogen to Protect Water Quality
Reviewed
How is nitrogen lost from the soil?Nitrogen is primarily lost by three pathways:
Odors From Livestock Operations: Causes and Possible Cures
Reviewed
Reduce livestock odors by managing manure storage, application methods, and using buffers to minimize odor impact.
Infectious Causes of Infertility in Sows
Reviewed
This webpage discusses infectious causes of infertility in sows, including bacterial infections, their impact on reproduction, and preventive measures.