Better Pork

The Swine Health Information Center has introduced new influenza A virus state-level monitoring dashboard.The Swine Health Information Center's domestic disease monitoring report, released as part of its April eNewsletter, indicates influenza A virus positivity increased substantially in the wean-to-market category in February, with 51 percent the positive cases being lung submissions. To help pork producers keep on top of influenza A, SHIC has introduced its new influenza A virus state-level monitoring dashboard.SHIC Associate Director Dr. Lisa Becton says the influenza A monitoring dashboard is a great resource. Quote-Dr. Lisa Becton-Swine Health Information Center: It can actually show aggregate data of where influenza is by the state level and it can show that detection over time as well as characterize it by what specimen was submitted, what age group and then again show that graphically in a geographical area.Because influenza isn't seasonal, it really is important to understand where is the activity and where are animals being submitted from that are seeing high caseloads? There are some cases that are being submitted a bit above expected and so that's also another thing that will be really good to monitor because influenza doesn't seem like it's seasonal anymore.This is also important because we are going to be going into fair season so we'll have a lot of exhibitions going on. We have a lot of people and pig interactions and so it's really important to monitor pig health, especially when people are considering taking their pigs to a fair or to another place where there exhibitions.All around, it really is going to be a resource that we've not had before to get a more national picture of where influenza is occurring. Dr. Becton stresses biosecurity remains our first line of defence against any disease and, although the challenge of working in cold weather is starting to diminish, it's always important to stay focused on biosecurity because disease still transmits any time of year.

Manitoba Pork recently highlighted some of the top producers during their Pork Quality Competition. The event held during the Manitoba Winter Fair gives producers the opportunity to showcase their operations and the high-quality, sustainably produced pork raised here in Manitoba. The winners of this year's Pork Quality Competition: Grand Champion and 1st Place - Wellwood Colony Reserve Champion and 2nd Place - Sprucewoods Colony 3rd Place - Boundary Lane Colony Winning charities benefiting from this year's winners include the Neepawa Hospital and the Hutterian Emergency Aquatic Response Team.

Byline- Braxten Breen, Farms.com Intern No need to purchase multiple pieces of hand-held lawn care equipment anymore, quickly disconnect and reconnect attachments with Makita’s split shaft multi-tool system. With the 40V MAX XGT Split Shaft Power Unit, farmers will be able to use up to 13 different attachments, ranging from line trimmers, pole saws, hedge trimmers, blowers, and much more. The split shaft features 3-speed options for active power management giving the farm versatility for the variety of tasks being tackled on the farm. Farmers can easily adjust the speed level with the 3-speed push button control. Speed Options: Low – 5,700 RPM’s Medium – 8,200 RPM’s High – 9,700 RPM’s Makita equipped this Split Shaft with a soft start feature, meaning once the machine has started the speed will gradually increase to eliminate start up shock. Along with reverse mode, it allows unwanted debris to be entangled and cleared from the cutting head. Safety features on the Split Shaft consist of Star Protection with 3 active controls for current, voltage, and temperature, just in case of an overload, also to increase the farmer’s safety an electric brake has been added as well. The Split Shaft from Makita can attach 13 different lawn care attachments for tasks on the farm.

Kinze Manufacturing introduces 5670, its newest innovation in split row planting technology. This feature-rich planter boasts a new toolbar design with increased height for better residue flow. The 5670 also introduces a new push row unit configuration, building upon Kinze's over 40 years of experience in this area. Brad Niensteadt, Senior Product Specialist with Kinze, says the planter is available in two configurations: 12/23 and 16/31. The 12-row configuration offers a bulk fill capacity of 80 bushels, while the 16-row option provides a generous 120 bushels of seed capacity. Niensteadt says that a significant addition to the 5670 is the factory-installed liquid fertilizer option with 300 gallons for the 12 and 16-row configurations. This innovative system allows for application rates between two and 25 gallons per acre at speeds ranging from three to 12 miles per hour. Another key feature according to Niensteadt is the automatic tank leveling system, which prevents fertilizer overflow on uneven terrain. This system automatically transfers fertilizer from the lower tank to the higher tank, ensuring efficient application. The 5670 offers a wide range of additional options, including Blue Vantage controlled air- adjustable row cleaners, pneumatic closing wheels, and various fertilizer opener configurations. Notably, the 5670 is the first Kinze planter with bulk seed to feature two by two fertilizer openers for split row application. Kinze has equipped the 5670 with several standard features to minimize maintenance requirements. These include double bushing parallel arms, shimless greaseless gauge wheel arms, and standard spool gauge wheels. The standard variable displacement PTO pump ensures compatibility with most tractors, requiring only two remotes for operation. With its innovative design, advanced features, and user-friendly operation, the Kinze 5670 promises to be an asset for farmers seeking to optimize their split row planting operations. Watch the video below to learn more about Kinze 5670 Pivot Fold, Split Row Planter.

J Cole Sanford, Cash Crop Product Specialist for New Holland, recently showcased the all-new CR11 Combine to the Farms.com audience, a significant launch for model year 2025. This machine underscores New Holland's commitment to innovation, offering a fresh perspective on reducing the total cost of harvesting. Sanford says the CR11 combines efficiency and productivity in a way that revolutionizes the agricultural machinery industry. The CR11 is built on a foundation of cutting-edge design, starting with a blank slate to rethink harvesting efficiency. Central to its design are twin 24-inch rotors and a powerful engine boasting 775 horsepower, coupled with a generous grain tank capacity of 567 bushels. Sanford says one of the standout features is the all-new designed residue system capable of spreading up to 60 feet, ensuring an even distribution critical for next year's crop. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive shares Sanford, highlighting the CR11's incorporation of new technologies that make it the most productive combine New Holland has ever built. The innovative twin rotor system and a redesigned cleaning system ensure optimal flow and distribution of crops, adjusting automatically to reduce losses regardless of terrain or crop load. A groundbreaking addition to the CR11 is its radar sensing residue system, which automatically adjusts the spread of chaff and residue to match the width of the header or the impact of wind conditions. This feature ensures full coverage without the need for operator input, allowing the driver to focus on the tasks at hand. Moreover, the CR11 is equipped to handle the demands of larger machines and higher capacities, with a focus on larger grain tanks to accommodate higher yields explains Sanford. The machine's unload auger system operates at an impressive six bushels per second, significantly reducing downtime in the field. In partnership with MacDon, New Holland also introduces the FD250, a 50-foot header that complements the CR11's capabilities, enhancing throughput and efficiency even further. This combination promises a seamless, high-performance harvesting experience. Watch the video below to learn more about New Holland's CR11 Combine.

Canadian grain farmers are stepping up to the plate with the launch of "Road to 2050," a set of policy recommendations that initiative tackles three critical challenges simultaneously: feeding a growing global population, combating climate change, and ensuring the economic viability of Canadian grain farms. Andre Harpe, GGC Chair, emphasized Canadian grain growers proactive stance in addressing the pressing demands of feeding more people, combating climate change, and ensuring the profitability of grain farms through pioneering sustainable practices, which are instrumental in both shrinking our carbon footprint and advancing Canada's climate objectives. The grain sector boasts impressive progress in environmental responsibility. Over the past two decades, they've maintained stable greenhouse gas emissions while significantly increasing production. This translates to a remarkable 50% reduction in GHG emission intensity from 1997 to 2017, exceeding the national average decrease of 36%. Contributing $30 billion to Canada's GDP, the grain sector acknowledges the need for continuous innovation and investment. "For years, Canadian grain farmers have been sustainability champions, making our country a global leader in low-emission grain production," says William van Tassel, 1st Vice Chair of GGC. "However, to remain competitive and committed to emission reduction, we need a significant boost in research and development funding. This investment is crucial to overcome current hurdles and unlock future opportunities." "Road to 2050" proposes a collaborative approach between grain farmers and the government to reduce emissions. Their recommendations focus on increased funding for public and private breeding research, expanding access and resources for existing climate programs, and developing a comprehensive data management strategy. "We are committed to working alongside the government to reduce emissions while boosting production to meet global food demands," emphasizes Harpe. "Ther

The Alberta Government, recognizing the potential of digital advancements in farming, has awarded a $1.2 million grant to the Simpson Centre for Food and Agricultural Policy at the University of Calgary. This funding kick-starts the Alberta Digitalization Agriculture (ABDIAG) program, a nearly three-year initiative aiming to revolutionize Alberta's agricultural sector through cutting-edge technologies. Launching in October 2023 and running until June 2026, the ABDIAG program seeks to overcome barriers in adopting agricultural digital technologies. It focuses on leveraging robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart devices to increase efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability in farming practices. The program also aims to develop policies that support data management and transparency within the agri-food sector. The Alberta Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, led by Minister RJ Sigurdson, announced the grant, highlighting its potential to make Alberta’s agriculture more competitive and innovative. "This program is a significant step toward enhancing the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture, benefiting both producers and the wider community," Sigurdson remarked. The ABDIAG program is not just about technological advancement but also about addressing key challenges such as technology awareness, return on investment, data literacy, structural capacities, and policy prioritization. It envisions a future where Alberta's agricultural production is not only more efficient and cost-effective but also environmentally sustainable. Educational outreach, including academic publications, policy briefs, living labs, and webinars, is planned to disseminate findings and encourage the adoption of digital technologies among producers and policymakers. The initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of farming while increasing production, fostering a shift towards more informed and technologically equipped agricultural practices. As the program unfolds, the Simpson Centrewill play a crucial role in bridging the gap between research, policy-making, and real-world application.

By: Farms.com In response to the ongoing drought conditions severely impacting livestock producers across Saskatchewan, the Canadian government, in partnership with the Saskatchewan government, has announced an infusion of additional support. This aid comes through the Canada-Saskatchewan Feed Program, initially rolled out on October 20, 2023, to bolster producers in maintaining their breeding herds amidst challenging weather conditions. Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, alongside Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit, shared news of the top-up payments slated for eligible livestock producers already participating in the 2023 program. This move underscores both governments' commitment to aiding the province's agriculture sector during these testing times. Initially, the program disbursed payments covering up to 75% of the total anticipated support to ensure widespread assistance. With sufficient budget remaining, the program is now set to release the remaining 25%, offering a significant boost to producers within designated drought-impacted regions. Depending on their location, producers can expect top-ups of up to $50 or $20 per head. The Canada-Saskatchewan Feed Program, part of the broader AgriRecovery framework, is designed to assist producers with extraordinary costs arising from disaster situations, like the current drought. These initiatives reflect a joint effort, with a 60:40 cost-sharing arrangement between the federal and provincial governments under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). In addition to this targeted support, producers have access to a suite of business risk management programs including AgriStability, AgriInsurance, and AgriInvest, offering a safety net against various production and income losses. The application deadline was March 15, 2024, with the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation’s Feed Team tasked with reprocessing eligible applications. This streamlined approach ensures that the necessary funds reach producers without delay, offering some relief as they navigate the adverse effects of the drought. Community and industry leaders have expressed gratitude for the government's swift action, recognizing the significance of this additional support in ensuring the resilience and continuity of the agricultural sector in Saskatchewan.

By: Farms.com In an innovative push to transform how Canadians view and consume turkey, renowned Chef Chuck Hughes has teamed up with Think Turkey in their latest campaign, 'Do It More Often.' Launched this spring, the campaign seeks to entice Canadian families to integrate turkey into their meals not just during the festive season but all year round. Over six weeks, this spirited campaign will roll out across various digital platforms, including social media and connected TV. Through a series of concise 15-second videos, both English and French-speaking Canadians will be introduced to the versatility of turkey. These spots, designed to be as informative as they are entertaining, leverage a mix of humor and culinary expertise to engage viewers. Behind this initiative is the belief in turkey's potential as a nutritious and flexible option for daily meals. From morning breakfast to night-time dinners, turkey can be incorporated into a wide array of dishes, including tacos, meatballs, and sheet pan dinners. The campaign drives this message home by directing Canadians to the dedicated website, DoItMoreOften.ca, where Chef Hughes shares his exclusive turkey recipes and cooking techniques. This effort is part of the broader Think Turkey campaign, a collaborative project between Turkey Farmers of Canada and the Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors. Launched in 2019, the campaign aims at reinventing turkey's image, promoting its health benefits, and highlighting its suitability for various cuisines. By partnering with Chef Hughes, the 'Do It More Often' campaign underscores turkey's adaptability and seeks to inspire Canadians to experiment with turkey in their everyday cooking. The goal is to elevate turkey to a staple in Canadian cuisine, encouraging a shift in consumer habits and boosting turkey consumption across the nation.

One of Saskatchewan’s political parties wants to limit foreign farmland ownership. “The problem with foreign farmland ownership is it’s chewing up so much farmland that it drives the land prices right up,” Rose Buscholl, theleader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Saskatchewan, told Farms.com. “It becomes impossible for people to compete and for families to keep the farms in their families.” For context, Saskatchewan’s farmland values increased by almost 16 per cent from 2022, Farm Credit Canada’s Farmland Values Report says. Under current Saskatchewan law, people or entities deemed ineligible, which include non-Canadian citizens or non-permanent residents of Canada, may own 10 acres of land. Acquisitions of more than 10 acres require an exemption from the Farm Land Security Board. One of the Buscholl’s party’s proposals is to expand the definition of foreign farmland ownership to include people or entities who aren’t living or farming in Saskatchewan. A 2017 report from Saskatchewan and Manitoba researchers found that, in 2014, 37 identified investors owned a total of 837,019 acres.

A B.C. company known for its development of apples that help reduce food waste, has received approval from Health Canada for a new apple variety. Okanagan Special Fruits (OSF), the company behind the Arctic brand of apples, which include Granny Smith, Fuji and Golden varieties, received the green light for its new Arctic Gala apple. “Health Canada (HC) notified OSF that it has no objection to the food use of the Arctic apple event in the Gala apple variety, noting that the event was no different than the three varieties previously approved by the agency and now commercially grown by the company,” the company said in an April 9 press release. OSF’s apple offerings stay fresher longer because of its scientific process. The process includes “turning off” the fruit’s polyphenol oxidase (PPO), the enzyme responsible for enzymatic browning. “This browning is due to a chemical reaction with oxygen in the air, and it may be responsible for up to half of all food waste,” the American Chemical Society says. By silencing the apple’s PPO, Arctic’s fresh sliced products have a shelf life of up to 28 days, OSF says.

By Farms.com Researchers at the University of Calgary have discovered a critical link affecting radon gas levels in rural homes, particularly those near drilled groundwater wells. This finding sheds light on why rural communities experience higher radon concentrations compared to urban settings. The study, a collaborative effort across multiple faculties, delves into the geophysical, architectural, and property-specific factors contributing to this phenomenon. Dr. Aaron Goodarzi, the lead investigator, highlights an intriguing aspect of rural water wells, stating, "It’s the water wells – not the water, but the wells themselves – that appear to be acting as unintended straws for radon gas deep in the ground." This insight points to the structural gaps around well pipes as a major conduit for radon gas, rather than the water content itself. Radon, a carcinogenic gas, poses significant health risks, especially as the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in Canada. Adding to this, Dr. Cathy Ryan's observation that "unintended" or "fugitive" radon gas migration could be happening alongside water wells parallels concerns previously noted with methane around oil and gas wells. This comparison emphasizes the potential dangers lurking in rural living environments and the need for meticulous inspection and remediation efforts. To combat these risks, the study advocates for rigorous radon testing, particularly in rural areas with drilled groundwater wells. Averaging a 30% higher exposure in rural homes across Canada, this research underscores the urgency of addressing radon safety and includes contributions from the realms of medicine, science, and architecture. The importance of integrating environmental understanding into building design is also highlighted, offering crucial insights into creating safer living spaces. Josh Taron from the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape points out, "In order to design safe and healthy buildings, it’s imperative to understand the environment in which they exist." Supported by the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, this study not only advances our understanding of radon exposure risks but also fuels initiatives like the Evict Radon National Study, aimed at eradicating radon from Canadian homes and enhancing lung cancer screening inclusivity.

Early in 2024, Case IH revealed their latest agricultural marvel, the AF11 Combine Series, along with a series of purpose-driven solutions that underscore the company’s dedication to advancing farming efficiency and productivity. Kurt Coffey, Vice President of North America with Case IH, says the new additions to the lineup represents more than just an evolution in machinery; it signifies a commitment to innovation that’s rooted in a deep understanding of the farmer's needs. Coffey says the development of the AF11 Series was guided by a singular vision: to deliver industry-leading performance, capacity, and grain quality. Case IH’s focus on creating the largest grain tank in the industry isn’t just about size says Coffey — it’s about enabling farmers to meet the demands of tighter harvesting windows and increasing farm sizes with unparalleled productivity. The combine's design, characterized by simplicity and durability, aims directly at maximizing uptime and enhancing the farmer's bottom line. But, according to Coffey Case IH's innovation doesn’t stop at the combine. The introduction of a new heavy-duty suspended undercarriage for their iconic Quadtrac platform illustrates a responsive approach to customer feedback. This update not only maintains the Quadtrac's global reputation for solving field challenges through improved flotation, compaction, and power delivery but also addresses the desire for greater comfort and a better overall ride. Coffey says this commitment to listening and responding to the agricultural community’s needs is a theme that will continue to resonate throughout Case IH’s offerings. From the powerful AF11 to the enhanced Quadtrac undercarriage, each product demonstrates Case IH’s philosophy of purposeful design. By focusing on the practical needs and challenges faced by farmers, Case IH continues to lead the industry in innovation, ensuring that every product they develop delivers tangible benefits to its users. Coffey’s message was clear: every piece of equipment, every innovation, and every design choice is driven by a commitment to improving the efficiency, productivity, and satisfaction of the farming community.

One of Quebec’s opposition parties is calling on Premier François Legault and his government to set aside funds for farmers during these challenging times. A spokesperson for Quebec solidaire, which has 12 out of 125 seats in the province’s national assembly, is imploring the government to do more before it’s too late for some farmers. "We can't wait for the next budget to give agricultural producers some breathing space," Gabirel Nadeau-Dubois, who represents the riding of Gouin, told the Canadian Press. "Of course, there are a lot of things to do, there are a lot of programmes to review, and there are issues that won't be resolved in a few days. But one thing the premier must do quickly is to release an emergency fund to provide immediate financial assistance to farmers who need it because last season was catastrophic, and 2024 is shaping up to be difficult too.” This recent call for more support came after Quebec farmers staged a protest last week. More than 300 producers drove their tractors through Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu on Friday to voice the challenges they’re facing. "We already have people going bankrupt. We already have people shutting down, doing something else. A lot of farmers already have to work almost part-time, if not full-time, outside the farm to be able to make ends meet," Stephanie Levasseur, vice-president of the Union des producteurs agricoles (UPA), Quebec farmers' union, told CTV News.

In the world of agriculture, efficiency and technology play pivotal roles in defining success. Enter the Case IH AF11 combine, a breakthrough in harvesting capacity and efficiency. Leo Bose, Case IH’s North American Marketing Manager, introduces this impressive machine, with loads of capacity, technology, and runtime that promises to redefine harvesting operations. At the heart of the AF11's unmatched efficiency lies its formidable engine. With 775 horsepower, it supports a 567-bushel capacity, enabling it to manage more acres per day at reduced costs. This powerhouse also boasts a rapid six bushel per second unload rate, highlighting its capacity prowess. However, the AF11's innovation doesn't stop at raw power. Embedded technology within the cab introduces a new era of machine automation. This includes fully automated adjustments to the combine's cutting mechanisms, as well as an innovative cleaning and residue management systems. These advancements are propelled further by residue automation equipped with radar technology, ensuring optimal spread regardless of environmental conditions. Runtime efficiency is another cornerstone of the AF11's design. By optimizing fuel consumption—reducing engine RPM from 2100 to 1900—the AF11 exemplifies efficiency, cutting down on fuel usage without sacrificing performance. Bose explains more in the complete video shown at the end of this article. For nearly half a century, axial flow combines have set the benchmark for harvesting equipment. The AF11 continues this legacy, representing the culmination of 46 years of innovation. It not only meets but exceeds expectations, offering unparalleled efficiency, technological advancements, and operational cost savings. Watch the video below to learn about the AF11 Series.

In an urgent appeal, Ontario Greens Leader Mike Schreiner, Deputy Leader Aislinn Clancy, local farmers, and Wilmot Township community members have come together to challenge a rezoning plan that threatens 770 acres of valuable farmland. This collective effort aims to protect the land located between Nafziger Road, Bleams Road, and Wilmot Centre Road from being repurposed for an undisclosed project. Aislinn Clancy highlighted the significance of safeguarding farmland, stating, “A threat to farmland anywhere is a threat to farmland everywhere.” She further emphasized the importance of preserving the region's prime agricultural land to prevent irreversible loss. The group has voiced concerns over the diminishing farmland in Ontario, with Mike Schreiner pointing out that the province is losing 319 acres of farmland daily. This loss is alarming, considering only five percent of Ontario’s land is arable and vital for sustaining the province's $50 billion food and farming industry. The leaders argue for reconsideration of the project location to avoid compromising Ontario's food security. Clancy also criticized the recent trend of urban boundary expansions under the Ford government, labeling it as a direct assault on traditional land planning and zoning practices. She accused the current administration of facilitating these expansions at the cost of agricultural land. The Ontario Greens pledge to work collaboratively across party lines to counteract forced boundary expansions and to secure the preservation of prime farmland for future generations. Their campaign underscores the critical need for sustainable land management practices that prioritize agricultural preservation over urban development, ensuring the long-term viability of Ontario's food production capabilities and economic prosperity in the agricultural sector.

Join us for an illuminating episode of “Swine Insights” as we engage in a captivating conversation with Dr. Jeff Bergermann. In this episode, Dr. Bergermann, renowned in the swine industry, takes us on a journey through his background, passion for swine, and his role at Zoetis, where innovation meets veterinary medicine.Uncover the story behind Jeff’s connection with Olysky and explore the roots of his deep-seated passion for swine. Learn why he chose swine over other species and gain insights into the world of veterinary medicine through his role at Zoetis. Dr. Bergermann imparts invaluable veterinary advice, emphasizing the importance of preventive care, regular health checks, vaccination protocols, and early illness detection. Delve into the buzz around Circovirus, the evolving strains of PCV2.

The contraction of the Canadian swine herd persists into 2024. Despite higher-than-expected sow productivity in 2023, larger slaughter and export figures have led to a decrease of 140,000 head in the beginning hog inventory compared to the previous year. To put this into perspective, the Canadian swine herd had already shrunk by 265,000 head between January 2022 and January 2023. In another indication of this trend, the beginning sow stocks display a two percent reduction in the sow herd at the start of 2024, marking the lowest January 1 sow numbers since 2015. Additionally, there has been a two percent decline in the number of farms reporting hogs compared to January 1, 2023, suggesting a continued exodus of producers from the industry. This ongoing consolidation is further underscored by a slight increase in the average number of animals on remaining operations.

nsition for Ro-Main, Jacquelin Labrecque has been appointed as the new CEO of the company, succeeding Serge Labrecque who served as CEO for 25 years. The announcement was made during a private event attended by family and staff members. Serge Labrecque, co-founder and outgoing CEO of Ro-Main, passes on the torch to Jacquelin Labrecque, a second-generation member of the family. With 13 years of experience within the company, Jacquelin Labrecque brings a fresh and innovative perspective to the role. Having served as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Product Officer (CPO) prior to his appointment, Jacquelin Labrecque’s strategic vision and technological expertise are poised to drive Ro-Main forward in the realm of precision livestock farming. Under Serge Labrecque’s leadership, Ro-Main flourished into an industry leader renowned for its innovative solutions in swine and poultry farming. His decision to transition to the role of Executive Vice President coincides with the company’s 25th anniversary, marking a pivotal moment for Ro-Main as it embraces a new era of leadership and technological advancement. Expressing confidence in Jacquelin’s capabilities, Serge Labrecque remarked, “I am proud of what we have accomplished at Ro-Main over the years. I am convinced that Jacquelin is the best person to guide the company to new heights.”

Contraction in the Canadian swine herd continues in 2024,according to a recent US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN) report. Higher than anticipated sow productivity in 2023 partially offset larger slaughter and export numbers with the beginning hog inventory down 140,000 head compared to 2023; comparatively, the Canadian herd contracted by 265,000 head from January 2022 to January 2023. Beginning sow stocks show a 2% reduction in the sow herd to begin 2024, representing the smallest January 1 sow numbers since 2015. The number of farms reporting hogs declined 2% compared to January 1, 2023, indicating that producers continue to exit the industry. As a signal of ongoing industry consolidation, the average number of animals on remaining operations increased slightly. The fall in sow inventories is not equal across Canada for 2024. Canadian sow herd reduction has beendriven by reductions in Eastern Canada, largely as a result of processing reductions, while Western Canada saw a slight increase to their sow herd beginning in 2024. This occurred despite the fact thatOlymel idled five sow barns located in Western Canada, removing an estimated 16,000 head from production. Olymel’s restructuring has also impacted processing capacity in Eastern Canada where atthe end of 2023, Olymel closed its Vallée-Jonction plant in Quebec. Despite the Olymel closure and signalled reductions in purchasing, it appears that producers in Eastern Canada, especially Quebec, havebeen slower to reduce production, reportedly resulting in a backlog of market-ready hogs. Sow productivity has likely also played a factor. Sow productivity reached a new high in 2023 based onthe Statistics Canada pig crop data. Fewer disease issues likely factored strongly in this improved productivity as PEDv control appears much improved. Sources indicate that strong productivity is alsoanticipated for 2024. As a result, FAS/Ottawa is raising the 2024 pig crop forecast to 29.4 million. This would represent a two percent reduction compared to 2023. However, Quebec producers will remainunder pressure to reduce production further. It is estimated that production in Quebec needs to be cut by 15% to adjust to reduced processing capacity. The Quebec herd in total was down 5% tobegin 2024. Quebec and Ontario market hogs have been finding shackle space in the United States and ifproducers continue to see value in this trade flow, reduction efforts may be mitigated.