RURAL PIG FARMERS: A CASE STUDY ON WELL-BEING PERCEPTION IN TEPETLÁN, VERACRUZ, MEXICO

Abstract

Rural pig farming (Sus domesticus Erxleben) is a major agricultural activity in Veracruz, Mexico. Given the controversies surrounding pig farming, the perception of well-being was studied along with the impact of this activity in Vicente Guerrero, in Tepetlán, Veracruz, Mexico. Twenty-six pig farms were characterized to understand their dynamics and profiles. Then, seven farmers were selected to conduct a case study on the location. A triangulation was carried out with other family members, local authorities, and a former farmer in the community. The segment interviewed was all female, with an average age of 48 years. Pig farming is the second most important economic activity in households and the main source of income for women. Production systems are traditional, with pared floors; 62.9 % are carried out in a space smaller than 1000 m². On average, each farmer has 21 animals and 53.9 m² of pigsties, and 96.2 % of farmers do not treat the waste generated by this activity. The interviewees relate well-being to the economy and health. The pig farming business does not currently satisfy the economic needs of the farmers. To generate more income, it is required to decrease the cost of pig feed and raise the sale price. Additionally, this activity affects the well-being of other members of the community.