Getting Ready For Pig Production a.k.a. Bring On The Pork

I never thought that we would get pigs and we didn’t…Becky did.

 

 

 

 

 

 

She began with two Hampshire gilts purchased from a mountain man in Rockingham County.  Then, she added four younger Tamworth gilts (unfortunately, one died) from a female breeder south of Roanoke.  Then, a Berkshire boar from a high school ag program - you have to get that male involved if you are going to have babies. Then, she added two Berkshire gilts from this same school program. This group of swine makes up her initial breeding plan. 

 

Lastly, she purchased 9 mixed breed pigs from her local pig mentor and friend to feed out and process to sell pork before her very own pigs are ready. 

 

The first litter of baby pigs has yet to arrive.  Due date is early May.  With the arrival of her piglets, she will also be selling feeder pigs for those more adventurous and wanting to feed out their own porker.

 

pregnant Hampshire

Are these enough pigs for Becky?  Well, it depends.  If she is able to grow a viable market for her pork, then it is not. 

 

I will be her biggest fan because I love PORK with dumplings and sauerkraut - my favorite and often served Sunday meal during my youth.  Unfortunately, it will be up to me to make it…no mother or grandmother to lead the way. 

 

But, one person a clientele does not make.

 

Becky is a hard worker and strives for success and satisfaction.

 

I know that her pig pen will be well populated with pigs in no time.  I am betting on it!

 

 

 

FYI - Becky will be selling beef, lamb and pork at the Staunton, Virginia Famers Market (Wednesdays starting May 14^, 2014) or locals can call her directly to make purchases. 

 

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL FARMER…FEMALE FARMER, to boot!