The development and evaluation of a model for artificial insemination by backyard pig farmers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate the model of artificial insemination (AI) technology transfer to backyard pig farmers in rural area. AI center, criteria and process for farmer selection, AI training program, AI practice in pigs and backyard farmer network were created as a model. Five hundred and thirty-one farrowing records from 307 sows at parity 1st – 8th from 231 backyard pig farms were studied. Farrowing rate (FR), number of total piglets born (TB) and number of piglets born alive (BA) were analyzed. Using this model, we found that AI had led to better results in FR, TB and BA than natural mating (P<0.05). Personal factors such as sex and age of farmers only had significant effects on FR (P<0.05), while educational level and farmers’ AI experience had significant effects on TB and BA (P<0.05). Model factors such as type of training, semen delivery system and semen storage time did not have significant effects on FR, TB and BA. But joining training program more than 2 time affect on FR (P<0.05). The backyard farmers could be trained in AI technique in order to achieve equally good results as experienced technicians. Male farmer within working age group or older, with high school education or higher could be the recommended target group for implementing this model. A strong cooperation with clear responsibilities of all stakeholders could create a good network of backyard pig farmers. In conclusion, the implementation of AI technique in pig can be applied with an aim towards a sustainable, self-sufficiency community