[Tregwyr]

Hi all,
I have two Tamworth weaners to clear up my overgrown areas and for the side effect of decent home reared pork!
I had thought to let the pigs rotate around all the edges of the fields to clear up the overgrown brambles etc but they are so overgrown I cant see the state of the fences. I think they are just 3 strands of barbed wire attached to the perimeter trees, from what I can see. Is it possible to fix stock fencing to trees? Or is it better to pay a contractor to come in and do the topping, put in the fencing and then let the pigs in? It just seems a shame to pay a tractor to clear an area that the pigs would love! Also, once the pigs have cleared an area, how long should we wait before putting more pigs back on it? Or should I harrow the ground after them and re-seed with some decent grass for future sheep? Any thoughts much appreciated!

[HappyHippy]

If it was bigger pigs you might be okay, but for small weaners who'd most likely be able to fit through between the wires (especially Tamworths who can see where they're going) I don't think it would keep them in for long - but that's just my opinion 

How long you leave it to recover depends on what sort of mess it's in by the time the pigs finish. We've found that first time round it recovers fairly quick without reseeding (as long as you move them as soon as it's all turned) and if it was rested for a few months it should all regrow fine. The usual is send the pigs off in autumn and rest it til the spring  You only need start to re-seeding once you've used it a couple of times IMHO
HTH
Karen

[Tregwyr]

Thanks Karen. So leave them where they are until its turned over then with a bit more barbed wire around the edges, move them  to start clearing?

[Marches Farmer]

Philip Broomhead did an excellent course n Pigs in Woodland at Holme Lacy College - don't know if it's still on.   Never underestimate a pig's capacity for escape!  Young pigs eating too much coarse material can suffer from impaction of food in the gut, which can be fatal.

[Tregwyr]

That's pretty essential to know! Thanks

[Tregwyr]

Just checked out the course! Looks fab, will contact them and see!

[P6te]

Its too far away for me but it looks an interesting course .... here is the direct link:

http://www.hct.ac.uk/Courses/pt-pigs.html

[Tregwyr]

Thanks both. Have "expressed interest" in the course (no firm dates yet) and will post whatever I learn if anyone interested?

[jellybean]

As long as there is food in the paddock and camping area they may just stay home and clean up yur brambles while they are there