Qualitative effect of the swine industry on the environment in the Mahara- Kadawatha veterinary range
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Date
2000-12-16
Authors
Nissanka, R. G. C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya
Abstract
In Sri Lanka, the present pig population is approximately 80,300. Pig farming is beginning to make an important contribution to the livestock sector. Among the Agricultural Livestock enterprises, swine management requires a great deal of attention as the pig industry can adversely affect the environment.
The main objective of this project was to identify the gross/qualitative effects caused by the pig industry on the environment in the Mahara-Kadawatha Veterinary Range. The study was based primarily on the data collected during the period, November 1999 to May 2000, using a questionnaire given to 27 piggery owners selected randomly from the Mahara-Kadawatha Veterinary Range. A second questionnaire was given to at least one neighbour of each farm, and the observations made on each of these farms and its surroundings were noted at each visit. The data were analyzed manually to determine the percentage occurrence of the specified conditions and the results are presented in the form of bar and pie charts.
The major environmental problem caused was the unpleasant odour generated from pig excreta, swill, and wastewater. Although all the farmers used swill as a feed, it was not disposed properly and this was found to be a major contributory factor in environment pollution. All the farmers around the Muthurajawela swamp were found to dump their piggery waste into the swamp. From the survey done, it was clearly shown that there was considerable amount of environmental pollution taking place due to the pig industry in the Mahara-Kadawatha Veterinary Range.
Farmers should always maintain the standard buffer zone. Swill should not be given in excess amounts and should not be retained for more than 24 hours. The buildings should be : eaned at least twice a day and there should be a proper waste disposal system. The farmers ould be educated about the conservation of their living environment and there should be an ive authority to check and regulate the necessary standards.
Description
Keywords
Veterinary Science , Swine Industry
Citation
Proceedings and Abstract of the Annual Research Sessions, December 16, 2000, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka pp 201