Managing swine production costs during tough economic times is something producers across the country constantly have on their minds. The folks at Boehringer Ingelheim understand that and put together a Lunch & Learn session during the 2015 World Pork Expo to share tips on handling costs, production and profitability.

Dr. Daryl Olsen, AMVC, provided a historical perspective on costs in swine production. “I think it very important that our producers understand that we are in a commodity business. And it is an international commodity business. So we are going to deal with highs and lows.” He added that we have to be sure we truly understand costs and the best way to control our costs is to enhancing production.

“I like to break it down to the very basics. You have the cost of the weaned pig, the cost of the facility and the cost of feed. Those are the three primary costs all producers have to look at.” His point was to simply encourage producers not to go in during bad times and slash costs because that in the end will cost you in performance and that is were money is to be made.

Dr. Olsen’s best advice can be broken down into three areas. Build a solid herd health plan, keep things basic but thorough and remember to stick with it for better and for worse.

You can listen to my complete interview with Dr. Olsen here: Interview with Dr. Daryl Olsen, AMVC

Find photos from the event here: 2015 World Pork Expo Photo Album