Dr. Tom Hartsock

Associate Professor of Animal Sciences,
Director Institute of Applied Agriculture

Phone: 301-405-4684
Email: tgh@umd.edu

Research Interests:

The focus of my research is the behavioral, physiological and nutritional interactions surrounding the birth, survival and growth of piglets. Birth trauma and competition for nursing positions combine to place as may as 30-40% of the neonates at risk and result in the death of about one third of those. Basic studies of parturition behavior and of the territorial spacing system established by the piglets provide information needed to help swine producers reduce neonatal death losses. Urination and defecation behavior patterns are also being studied in an effort to find way to reduce odor emissions from swine facilities.

I routinely collaborate with faculty who study hormonal control of body composition and of reproduction, including applied aspects of inducing early puberty in gilts. In my dual role as a researcher and extension specialist, I interact directly with county extension agents and farmers to integrate research results into swine production systems. I also serve as the director of the Institute of Applied Agriculture, a two-year program in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.