1. The main commercial recording scheme operated for pig producers by the MLC is the Pigplan Recording and Costing Service, currently covering some 1,100 herds. The service records a basic list of herd performance and financial factors, with the processed results forming the basis of MLC field staff on-farm advisory services.

2. The MLC Sow and Boar Monitoring Service was established in late 1983 using a bureau service with central computer processing. The service is available where it is felt necessary to undertake more detailed individual litter recording in order to identify particular weaknesses in production.

3. Individual sow and boar details are recorded. Then, starting with the weaning of the last litter, details of all services over a period are submitted regularly. The records of each parity are completed with the submission of farrowing and weaning data. Processed results, in the form of tabulated printout, are provided for forward planning management aids, individual sow and boar summaries, and herd summary performance over a suitable period.

4. In September 1987, 135 units were actively recording with an average herd size of 200 sows. Over 150,000 litter records have accumulated since the service started, representing some 66,000 sows from a total of 250 herds.