Deep-Litter-Pigs

ECHO's Natural Farming Pig System is comprised of a deep-litter pig pen in which hogs are raised atop a one-meter deep layer of bedding comprised mostly of sawdust, rice husks and ground charcoal.  By excluding the rain and preventing excessive spillage of feed and water, the bedding remains minimally moist, offering pigs relief from the heat. The bedding is also great for pigs to burrow into when they are cold.  Microbes in the bedding (enhanced by periodic sprays of IMO solution) break down wastes which are incorporated into the litter by the rooting of the animals.  After eight to 12 months of use, the nutrient-rich litter can be removed for application as compost on the farm.

This component is based on the Natural Farming approach developed in East and Southeast Asia which focuses on harnessing the impact of beneficial microbes for enhancing both crop and animal production systems. Either commercially derived microbes (i.e. Effective Microorganisms - EM) or farm produced cultures  (Indigenous Microorganisms - IMO) are employed in these farming systems.

Beneficial microbes, such as lactic acid bacteria, help to:

• Enhance soil-improving composts and natural fertilizers by accelerating the breakdown of organic matter in the soil and increasing plant access to nutrients
• Strengthen crop defenses against various pathogens
• Minimize and eliminate odors associated with livestock production
• Produce fermented animal feed that can be made from local vegetation such as banana stalks