Livestock Production and Management
Overview
The Tidewater AREC serves as a base for an Extension and applied research program with emphasis on production and management of swine and small ruminants.
For questions regarding livestock production and management, please contact Professor Mark Estienne.
Extension Livestock Specialist: Mark Estienne
- E-mail: mestienn@vt.edu
- Phone: (757) 807-6551
Staff: Kim Williams, Agricultural Supervisor
Faculty and staff collaborate with local producers and scientists from other states in applied research focused at solving problems in the Virginia and U.S. swine industries. General topics include reproduction, nutrition, health, and environment. Funding support comes from commodity board and industry grants.
Swine
Changes in the structure of the Virginia swine industry in the past thirty years parallel those occurring nationwide. Although most swine in Virginia are produced by Smithfield Foods, Inc., the world’s largest hog producer and processor, there remain many farmers with small sow herds, and a large number of youth raising pigs for 4-H educational projects. The needs of this diverse clientele differ greatly; however, we strive to provide a program that has benefits throughout the pork industry. Major educational events conducted annually are the Virginia Pork Industry Conference, and Small-Scale and Niche Market Pork Production Meetings. Dr. Estienne serves as an educational advisor for the Virginia Pork Council.
Small Ruminants
Sheep and goat Extension activities include field day events, publications, on-farm visits, Extension Agent trainings, and support of county Extension activities in collaboration with Agriculture and Natural Resource, and 4-H Extension Educators.