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Abstract
This study used the Q-methodology approach to analyze perceptions of precision livestock farming (PLF) technology held by stakeholders directly or indirectly involved in the US swine industry. To see if stakeholders' perceptions of PLF changed over time as PLF is a rapidly evolving field, we deliberately followed up with stakeholders we had interviewed 6 months earlier. We identified three distinct points of view: PLF improves farm management, animal welfare, and laborer work conditions; PLF does not solve swine industry problems; PLF has limitations and could lead to data ownership conflict. Stakeholders with in-depth knowledge of PLF technology demonstrated elevated levels of optimism about it, whereas those with a basic understanding were skeptical of PLF claims. Despite holding different PLF views, all stakeholders agreed on the significance of training to enhance PLF usefulness and its eventual adoption. In conclusion, we believe this study's results hold promise for helping US swine industry stakeholders make better-informed decisions about PLF technology implementation.
Highlights
This study examined US swine industry stakeholders’ perceptions of and needs for Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) across the pig production system ranging from areas of genetic improvement to welfare certification
This study investigated how persons with varied involvement in the swine industry saw precision livestock farming technology
Three distinct viewpoints were identified by this study using Q-methodology: PLF improves farm management, animal welfare, and labor work conditions; PLF does not solve swine industry problems; and PLF has limitations and could lead to data ownership conflicts
Summary
Global meat consumption has increased significantly over the past few decades, with pork and poultry showing the most substantial growth in consumption rates [1]. The number of animals kept on the farm has grown substantially, while the number of farmers has dwindled [2]. Each farmer has considerably larger herds, which makes it challenging for them to consistently monitor every animal in such large groupings in a way that assures each animal’s welfare while minimizing environmental impact. In the swine industry, the low-profit, high-risk [3] nature of pork production further exacerbates this situation
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