How farm couples can stay happy working together

May 19, 2020

As reducing the spread of COVID-19 has closed offices and workers are set-up at home, people are now experiencing something many farmers already do – work alongside a spouse. But farmers, just like everyone else, can easily overlook marital health, which may need some maintenance.

“One thing we don’t list on our balance sheet is health and the health of our relationships,” says Sean Brotherson, a professor and extension family science specialist from North Dakota State University. “It’s a low-cost but high-value priority.”

If a relationship turns sour, there’s a significant risk of a negative impact on the success of your farm business. However, the average couple waits six years before seeking counselling, says Merel Voth, a British Columbia counsellor and partner in a goat dairy with her husband, Barrie.

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Video: Exploring Precision Data in Swine Production - Dr. Janice Siegford

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Janice Siegford from Michigan State University discusses how precision livestock farming data can support pig health, welfare, transparency, and decision making. She explains why data ownership, privacy, consumer perception, and cost sharing must be addressed as technology becomes more common on farms. Listen now on all major platforms.

“Precision livestock farming data can support producers, veterinarians, certifiers, and consumers by enabling improved monitoring, prediction, and decision-making across the entire production system.”

Meet the guest: Dr. Janice Siegford / janice-siegford-24318839 is a Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University. Her expertise in animal welfare, neuroscience, and zoology supports research on pig behavior, stress resilience, and precision livestock farming. Her work explores early weaning, genetics, and stakeholder perspectives on technology adoption to improve pig care, health, and productivity. Learn more from Dr. Janice Siegford on The Swine it Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.