Large Blacks (or another heritage hog?)

[Bossroo]

Especially in every farming venture there is a great risk... with this economy of today most people are pinching pennies and just can't afford a pricey foodstuff. I would be very cautous in betting the farm on a venture that one is not familiar with and depending on creating a new market for.

 

[Cornish Heritage]

I assume sows could also be inseminated?

Yes they can BUT & here is the big BUT.... Large Blacks do not usually have a very visible heat cycle. We just spoke to someone again this week who has been trying to AI their Large Blacks with no success - it is hard & the failure rate can be high. It does not cost that much to keep a boar & you are also not wasting time - he will do the job the first time around

most people are pinching pennies and just can't afford a pricey foodstuff.

This is true to some degree HOWEVER we are talking about marketing to the folks that have the money. AND I don't mean to offend here or get political but there is & always will be different classes here in the USA. One of the things this economy is doing is widening the gap. The "upper" class will still pay premium prices for quality food. The "educated (health wise)" folks who have land are looking to become more & more self sufficient as they can see where this economy is going. These folks are looking for quality, hardy animals to raise.

A couple years ago we went to a nearby city for an event & happened to see the local Farmer's Market so decided to walk around. It was busy & the vendors were doing a great business. We were personally aghast at the prices being charged & would never pay that price BUT that is because we are trying to be self sufficient and if it is not grown here then we purchase in bulk in order to save money & get the cheapest price. I wouldn't dream of purchasing 1 lb of organic apples at top price when I can purchase a box for alot less per pound.

Am I criticizing anyone? Absolutely not! I think it is fantastic that the Farmers Markets are doing so well & locals are supporting them. We need consumers like that to really get the local economy growing.

NOW to the statement

in every farming venture there is a great risk.

LOL! Couldn't agree more & if you have a day job, don't quit it until your business is well up & running making a profit It is going to take time to see your investment returned. We often have folks calling us saying that they want to get into "whatever animal" to make some quick money. We burst their bubble nicely but firmly. If you are in it just to make money chances are you will fail. If you get "into it" for the welfare of your family, for hard work & enjoyment & to produce a quality product then you will likely meet with more success.

Liz

 

[yankeehill]

AH Liz - you and I are a like minded people! (Trying to be as self sufficient as possible....trying to grow and raise foods the least expensive but healthiest way...and I am TOTALLY shocked by Farmer's Market prices...and that people can and are willing to pay that!)

 

[fair weather chicken]

i understand LB's graze, but do berkshires? we have a chance to purchase some berkshire pure bred gilts. also i remember reading about pigs coming or going to Canada or U.S.A. an done way was easier?

 

[Cornish Heritage]

Never had a Berkshire so absolutely no clue on their grazing ability. Check the farm where they are to see

also i remember reading about pigs coming or going to Canada or U.S.A. an done way was easier?

Bringing pigs from Canada into the USA is easy - just need vet papers! (Of course you must personally have a passport too!)

Taking pigs from the USA into Canada is a whole different ball game - VERY expensive as they have to go into quarantine for at least 30 days on the Canadian side.

Liz