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Farm Resilience Series: Spring Maintenance & Biosecurity Strategies by Viceroy Distributors.

Spring brings warmer temperatures and the reemergence of pests and diseases, making it essential to reinforce farm biosecurity. Here are five key steps to protect your livestock and facilities:

  1. Control Rodent Populations
    • Remove any harvested grain outside buildings and eliminate wood piles.
    • Pre-bait rodent control areas before structures collapse due to melting snow.
    • Regularly monitor and refresh bait stations to deter infestations.
  2. Manage Fly Populations Early
    • Begin fly control measures before peak temperatures hit, as flies thrive in warmer conditions.
    • Utilize fly traps such as H-Trap systems to reduce breeding grounds.
  3. Limit Contact with Wild Birds
    • Prevent migratory birds from nesting near barns, as they can carry avian influenza.
    • Install netting or deterrents to keep them away from feed and water sources.
  4. Control Vehicular Traffic
    • Restrict entry points and ensure all vehicles are disinfected upon entry and exit.
    • Keep employee parking outside biosecure zones to minimize contamination risks.
  5. Enhance Sanitation and Cleanliness
    • Regularly disinfect equipment, tools, and clothing used in pig barns.
    • Ensure footbaths and dedicated farm boots are properly maintained for all personnel.
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Building Better Barns: Innovations in Hog Facility Design with PSI’s Tim Messinger

Video: Building Better Barns: Innovations in Hog Facility Design with PSI’s Tim Messinger

In this exclusive interview from the 2025 Iowa Pork Congress Rachel Fishback and Swineweb sit down with Tim Messinger, a seasoned expert from Precision Structures Inc. (PSI) of Wellman, Iowa, to delve into the latest trends and innovations in hog barn construction and remodeling.

With nearly two decades at PSI, Tim shares his journey from draftsman to sales, highlighting the company’s comprehensive services in building farrow-to-wean complexes, finishers, and nurseries. He emphasizes the critical role of proper site layout and grading in barn construction, ensuring long-term efficiency and scalability for pork producers.

Tim also discusses the increasing importance of advanced ventilation systems and smart controllers like Maximus and AP Edge, which offer producers enhanced monitoring and control over barn environments. As construction costs have risen, PSI has seen an uptick in remodeling projects, particularly in slat replacements, roof refurbishments and barn gating remodels to extend the lifespan of existing facilities.

A key takeaway from Tim is the value of partnering with reputable builders who offer robust post-sale support. PSI’s dedicated service team stands ready to assist clients 24/7, addressing emergencies and ensuring optimal barn performance.

For pork producers looking to build or upgrade their facilities, this conversation offers valuable insights into best practices and the latest industry developments.