agribusinessreview.comJULY - AUGUST 20259Producers are no longer simply animal caretakers; they're strategic managers of complex biological and economic systems. Performance data--feed intake, growth rate, mortality, medication usage--is continuously gathered, analyzed, and benchmarked across time and locations.This has led to a more interdisciplinary approach to management. A modern swine operation might involve not just veterinarians and nutritionists, but also data analysts, software engineers, and sustainability consultants. The language of the barn now includes terms like "predictive analytics," "KPIs," and "carbon footprint." The question is no longer just "How are the pigs doing?" but "How efficiently are we turning inputs into value while maintaining animal welfare and environmental compliance?"In parallel, biosecurity protocols have also become more technology-enabled. From electronic visitor logs to gate alarms and wearable trackers, producers can now track and trace movement across their facilities with a degree of accuracy that improves disease prevention and outbreak response. This has become especially critical in light of threats like African Swine Fever and PEDv, where early containment is key.Yet, even with all this advancement, the core principles of the industry remain unchanged: healthy animals, responsible stewardship, and long-term sustainability. Technology has not replaced the stockperson's eye, but it has augmented human judgment with precision tools that enable better decision-making. For many of us who've spent our careers in this space, the evolution has been both humbling and invigorating.Looking ahead, the next frontier may be integration of artificial intelligence, blockchain traceability, and carbon accounting within hog production systems. The challenges are real--capital investment, data interoperability, training--but the potential rewards are significant. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our commitment to adapt and lead with integrity.What began as a labor-intensive, instinct-driven industry is now a model of how traditional agriculture and modern innovation can not only coexist, but thrive together. And for those of us who've witnessed this transformation firsthand, it's been a remarkable ride.
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