N.J. Admin. Code § 2:8-7.4

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 8, April 15, 2024

Section 2:8-7.4 - Keeping

(a) The swine's environment must provide relief from the elements, such as excessive wind, excessive temperature and excessive precipitation, that result in hyperthermia or hypothermia detrimental to the swine's health.

(b) Relief under (a) above can be accomplished with natural features of the environment including, but not limited to, trees, land windbreaks, overhangs or other natural weather barriers, or constructed shelters.

1. Where constructed shelters are provided, they shall:

i. Be of sufficient size to provide adequate space for each animal seeking shelter within to stand, lie down, rest, get up, and move its head freely;

ii. Be structurally sound;

iii. Have a safe interior surface, reasonably free of injurious matter;

iv. Have natural or mechanical ventilation to provide air quality and maintain an environment suitable for the animals;

v. Provide an environment that supports swine health; and

vi. Be maintained at a level of repair such that they continue to fulfill the requirements of (b)1i through v above.

2. Stalls may be used to feed and monitor individual sows and gilts and to minimize injury to piglets.

i. The sow's head must not have to rest on an adjacent feeder.

ii. The sow's rear quarters must not be in contact with the back of the stall with her nose in contact with the front of the stall.

iii. The sow's head must not have to rest in the water trough.

iv. A pregnant sow's stall must be wide enough to allow the sow to stand up and lie down unimpeded, rest, and move its head freely.

(c) If enclosed yards are used to contain swine, the following conditions shall be met:

1. Sharp objects or debris that pose an actual threat to the swine's health shall be minimized to reduce the risk of injury to the swine.

2. If stationary objects that pose a risk of injury cannot be removed, reasonable efforts must be made to minimize contact of the swine with these objects by fencing off or covering the object, or through similar means.

(d) Constructed floor surfaces on which swine are kept must provide footing that minimizes injury to the swine.

N.J. Admin. Code § 2:8-7.4