In a statement, 4 professors explained that on November 30, 2023 they submitted a scientific project application for pig farming “in a tent in the field”.
Vienna (OTS) – The brothers Andreas and Thomas have been holding for 4 years Hubmann their pigs no longer live on fully slatted concrete floors, but rather outdoors in a tent in the field. This is a form of husbandry that is so new that it doesn’t even have a name yet. The advantage for the animals is clear: conventional housing with 2 m² of space per animal, but with fresh air, sun, a wallow and deep straw in which the animals can dig. There are practically no investment costs, so anyone who switches to this approach would not have to go into debt with Raiffeisen.
Whatever the reason, the authorities suddenly decided to ban this form of husbandry and even evict the company. It was announced that the 400 pigs would be picked up and taken to the slaughterhouse, but this has not yet happened. But every personal conversation with the authorities and even a report that proves that this type of farming with deep straw and alternating pasture does not result in excessive nitrate pollution of the soil or groundwater has not changed their opinion. But now rescue is in sight. The BOKU (University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna) submitted a project application for financing on November 30th. Pig farming at Hubmanns and at 5 other companies that have already adopted this form of farming is to be examined in a four-year study with regard to animal welfare, soil health and nutrient input into the groundwater. A corresponding letter was sent to the authorities, see the original: Martin Balluch’s Blog
VGT chairman DDr. Martin Balluch says: “If you look at the animal suffering and environmental damage caused by pig farming in animal factories with fully slatted floors and compare it with the husbandry at Hubmanns, you wonder what this authority is doing.
The Fully slatted floor is a catastrophe in every respect and if the animal protection law is taken seriously, it is also prohibited. But that is tolerated. But not the pigs in the tent in the field. Contrary to expert results, this is justified with a gut feeling that nitrate could perhaps get into the groundwater. We at VGT have been pushing for a long time for this to be scientifically investigated. The opportunity for a profound change in pig farming in Austria resulting from the Hubmanns’ innovative idea is far too great. And now, in fact, such a scientific project has been applied for. Now the authority has to give in and grant at least temporary approval. And the BH St. Pölten Land should immediately withdraw the 15 penalty notices, each with a fine of over €3,000, against the Hubmanns. Clear the way for a new form of pig farming that promises real animal welfare and could be feasible for all of Austria!
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Pressefotos (Copyright: VGT.at)
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