The development of a model for artificial insemination by backyard pig farmers in Thailand

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a model of artificial insemination (AI) technology transferable to backyard pig farmers for strengthening pig productivity in rural areas in Thailand. An AI center, criteria and process for farmer selection, an AI training program, AI practice in pigs, and a backyard farmer network were created as a model. Five hundred and thirty-one farrowing records from 307 sows were analyzed. Farrowing rates (FR), total number of piglets born (TB), and number of piglets born alive (BA) were studied. AI has led to better results in FR, TB, and BA than natural mating (P < 0.05). Demographic factors such as sex and age of farmers only had significant effects on FR (P < 0.05), while educational levels and farmers' AI experience had significant effects on TB and BA (P < 0.05). Model factors such as type of training, semen delivery systems, and semen storage time did not have significant effects on FR, TB, and BA. In conclusion, using this model, we found that backyard farmers could be trained in AI techniques in order to achieve equally good results as experienced technicians. Male farmers within working age or older, with a high school education or higher are the recommended target groups for implementing this model. Strong cooperation with clear responsibilities of all stakeholders could create a good network of backyard pig farmers. Therefore, the implementation of AI techniques in pig production can be applied to the target group with an aim towards a sustainable, self-sufficient community.