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Study Renews Debate Over Sows in Crates
Even though soiled straw must be removed, the researchers said group housing may not require more labor per animal than gestation stalls.
"In the United States, using a bedded system for gestating sows in hoop barns is relatively unfamiliar," Mark Honeyman, animal science professor and coordinator of ISU's Research Farms said in a statement. "With increased experience, management will evolve and production may be enhanced."
  Pigs are shown in narrow confinement crates in this undated photo made available by the United States Department of Agriculture. A new study from Iowa State University is raising questions about cramped pig crates that animal welfare groups contend are among the most cruel devices in modern agriculture. (AP Photo/USDA) (AP) 
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Lammers said the purpose of the study "wasn't to say one view was right, or one view was wrong."
"The purpose of this report was to examine what are the impacts of the types of gestation sow housing," he said.
A related study, based on a survey of general contractors and equipment and materials suppliers, said the estimated construction cost per gestating sow in hoop barns was $552, compared with $815 for the crates.
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