Together with the Lithuanian Pig Producers Association (LPPA), Norsvin Lietuva arranged a seminar for pig producers the 23rd of October. The seminar was addressing the potentials found in modern pig breeding, and consequently its genetics. Jonas Zaltuaskas (Norsvin Lietuva) and Algis Baravykas (LPPA) had done a great job marketing the seminar, and all seats were taken by the time the seminar started. Knut Roland, Norsvin Genetic Support Manager Europe, and Darwin Tilstra, Norsvin USA Genetic Improvement Manager, attended the seminar.
Knut Roland addressed the methods in which Norsvin generates genetic progress. There was a lot of interest from the audience regarding the extensive testing the Norsvin boars are put through at the new boar test station (Norsvin Delta). Testing both production and slaughter traits in such detail on an individual level is one important source of information making it possible to select the very best A.I. boars.

Darwin Tilstra shared updated information from the U.S. pig production sector. Darwin also showed how Norsvin Genetics are more and more in demand from large integrated operations in the American market. Due to the rapid increase in feed prices worldwide, the U.S. market is looking for animals able to convert feed to meat as efficient as possible. Being able to offer genetics known and proven to be among the very best regarding feed efficiency, this trend suits Norsvin USA very well.

After the seminar Darwin Tilstra spent time with his Lithuanian colleagues at the Norsvin nucleus farm in Muro Strevininkai. Although there is a long way from South Dakota, where the U.S. Norsvin nucleus farm is located, the tedious work to generate genetic progress is very similar. Darwin Tilstra also found time to visit Norsvin’s head quarter in Hamar, Norway. There Darwin met with key Norsvin personnel to make sure the routines of selecting the best boars for the international market is working to its full potential.
Norsvin is happy to be able to draw on the recourses we have in our international companies, and find that the best solutions are realised when we are working together. This way pig producers in both Europe and North-America have the chance to benefit from improved genetics.