Better Pork

By: Farms.com At the recent 2023-2024 Sollio Next Generation Award Gala, three Ontario farming entities were spotlighted for their exceptional contributions to the agricultural sector. This prestigious event, known for recognizing the innovative spirit within Canadian agriculture, highlighted the McRae brothers, Luymes Farms, and the MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company for their outstanding achievements. Matt & John McRae of Alvinston, and Luymes Farms & Custom Farming of Moorefield, were among the celebrated winners, demonstrating excellence in modern farming practices and community engagement. These farmers exemplify the progressive mindset that drives the agricultural industry forward, combining traditional values with innovative approaches to farming. Matt and John McRae run an 870-acre grain farm while working day jobs outside of the industry. They grow wheat, soybeans, and corn, as well as producing high quality seed for both their customers and their local Agromart retailer. They also manage a maple grove. Luymes Farms & Custom Farming specializes in grain production and contract farming, which has its own 2,000 acres, and services 8,000 acres in 500 fields for neighbouring farms. They are adept at managing their machinery fleet and have extensive knowledge of the specific growing needs in their area. In addition to these remarkable farmers, the MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company from Bath, Ontario, was also honored, showcasing the diversity and breadth of agricultural entrepreneurship within the province. Their unique blend of farming and brewing highlights the innovative potential of combining agriculture with other sectors to create unique, marketable products that resonate with consumers. The gala brought together members of the judging panel, including Marilyn Côté, Jean-Philippe Côté, and Normand Lapointe, alongside distinguished guests such as Richard Ferland, President of Sollio Cooperative Group, and Casper Kaastra, CEO of Sollio Agriculture. Their presence underscored the importance of the Sollio Next Generation Award as a cornerstone for recognizing agricultural excellence in Canada. The award, exclusive to Canadian agricultural businesses, included a category for clients of The Agromart Group for the second consecutive year, highlighting Sollio Agriculture's commitment to fostering growth and inno

To support and strengthen the pork sector, today, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of National Revenue, announced up to $10.6 million to Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) through the AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, an initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The Cluster seeks to enhance Canada's leading position in the global pork sector by conducting strategic research initiatives that will advance sustainability, resilience and growth opportunities. Research activities are expected to: improve understanding of sector environmental and climate performance and strategies to reduce GHGs and environmental impacts stimulate greater productivity and product quality through new insights and technologies enhance animal welfare and respond to diseases advance the fight against antimicrobial resistance enhance the competitiveness of Canadian pork producers and processors

An Alberta organization dedicated to ensuring livestock in the province were properly looked after has halted operations. Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC), which local livestock producers founded in 1993 to promote responsible and humane animal care, announced its immediate closure on March 1 citing a lack of resources. “AFAC has been hit hard in recent months, including a lack of government funding,” Merna Gisler, chair of AFAC, said in a statement. “This is by no means the conclusion we wished to see happen, but the Board feels this is the responsible action to follow.” AFAC’s expenses have been in the red in recent years. In its 2022 annual report, for example, the organization ran a deficit of $56,478. The losses were “partially due to lack of government funding,” AFAC’s report says. The organization’s work is funded primarily through membership dollars. Throughout its 30-year history, AFAC has been involved with multiple initiatives to support the ag sector.

Researchers with VIDO are evaluating the addition of modified baker’s yeast to the rations of piglets in place of antibiotics to protect health and stimulate increased weight gain. With funding provided by the Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund, scientists are exploring the potential of adding modified bakers yeast to the rations of piglets to deliver antimicrobial peptides and essential amino acids directly to the gut. Dr. Heather Wilson, a Research Scientist with VIDO and an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and the School of Public Health at the University of Saskatchewan, says the goal is to develop feed supplements that will attack bacteria and viruses in the gut without the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Quote-Dr. Heather Wilson-Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization: We’re partnering with Renaissance Bioscience Corp from British Columbia and what they’re experts in is yeast bioengineering. They simply take bakers yeast, brewer’s yeast, the same thing that we use all of the time and they’re putting in some small modifications so that the yeast can have a protein on the surface so it localizes to the small intestine of the pig. That overcomes the huge dilution effect of the digestive tract and then it’s going to be secreting into the lumen or the gut itself these antimicrobial peptides and we’re going to then test if it’s promoting piglet health and protecting them against bacterial and viral infections. What we’re lining up is looking at which proteins we want to use to localise the yeast to the small intestinal wall. We already know which antimicrobial peptides we’re going to put into the yeast so they can be secreted, we already know which of the essential amino acids are going to be secreted by the yeast as well. We think that if we can show that adding simple modified baker’s yeast to piglet diets then we can help their growth and their health and it’ll benefit the pigs and the producers. Dr. Wilson says the work is in its early days but the hope is that this approach will protect piglet health, especially during the stressful weaning period, and stimulate increased growth and faster weight gain.

A professor with the University of Saskatchewan reports progress in the development of a new tool to assess indicators of on farm animal welfare at slaughter. Researchers with the University of Saskatchewan's Western College of Veterinary Medicine and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering with funding provided through the NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Swine Welfare research program have developed an automated swine welfare assessment system using computer based artificial intelligence to evaluate carcasses at the abattoir. The system consists of a digital security camera and an artificial intelligence processor.Dr. Seokbum Ko, a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, says throughout processing this system identifies and evaluates lesions, serving as on farm welfare indicators. Quote-Dr. Seokbum Ko-University of Saskatchewan: Initial findings suggest this approach is very cost effective and provides insights into on farm welfare and preslaughter handling.Utilizing computer vision ensures consistent unbiased data collection crucial for monitoring and improving animal welfare standards. Regarding the technology's capability to evaluate lesions, the AI models are displaying improved accuracy in identifying and categorizing lesions on pig carcasses.Several factors impact this ability.Firstly, the quality and quantity of data utilized for training significantly influences performance.A diverse dataset with ample images representing various lesion types and severity is crucial for effective training. Secondly the complexity and appearance of lesions can pose challenges for accurate detection, especially subtle or irregularly shaped ones.Moreover, environmental factors like lighting conditions in the abattoir can affect image quality and consequently lesion detection accuracy.Optimising camera placement and lighting is essential to ensure clear and consistent images for analysis. Dr. Ko says the promising advancements validate the potential scalability of this technology for widespread commercial implementation.He says the next step is to refine the computer models to ensure they deliver more precise results.

Some members of Canada’s ag community showed support for Pink Shirt Day. The day, celebrated on the last Wednesday of February, encourages people to wear pink shirts to raise awareness about bullying. “Pink Shirt Day, we are ready, (a)re you!!” the Strathmore, Alta. branch of Core Ag Inputs posted on X. Pink Shirt Day, we are ready, Are you!!#BullyingAwareness pic.twitter.com/kxpGLaWrGG — CORE Ag - Strathmore (@CORE_Strathmore) February 28, 2024 A photo of a pink shirt with the company’s logo accompanies the post. Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan is also recognizing Pink Shirt Day on social media. “On Pink Shirt Day, we choose kindness over bullying,” the organization said on X. “Today, we’re joining hands to raise awareness about bullying among our young generation. In everything you do, choose kindness!” ???? On Pink Shirt Day, we choose kindness over bullying. ???? Today, we're joining hands to raise awareness about bullying among our young generation. ???? In everything you do, choose kindness!#Pink

In the heart of Canadian agriculture, farm women are making significant strides, contributing immensely to farm safety, wellness, and leadership. This International Women's Day, the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) shines a light on these vital roles through research and celebration. A collaborative study by Farm Management Canada, supported by CASA, titled "Expanding Opportunities for Canadian Agriculture by Understanding the Experience of Farm Women," has unveiled the unique contributions and challenges of farm women. The study reveals that nearly half of the farm women are spearheading farm safety plans, highlighting their indispensable role in ensuring safety on farms. Andrea Lear, CEO of CASA, emphasizes the critical yet often overlooked role of women in the success and safety of family farms. Recognizing these contributions not just on International Women’s Day but year-round is a priority for CASA. To celebrate and delve deeper into these contributions, CASA is hosting an online forum, “Celebrating Women in Agriculture: Wellness, Safety and Leadership,” on March 8 at 12 pm Central Time. This event, sponsored by Syngenta Canada, will feature a panel discussion providing insights into farm women's experiences and contributions. For more information and to register, visit here. The support from Syngenta Canada and the spotlight on this groundbreaking research aim to foster greater recognition and opportunities for women in agriculture. Christina Stroud from Syngenta Canada expresses hope that this initiative will illuminate the challenges farm women face and encourage more support and acknowledgment of their work. As a national non-profit organization, CASA is dedicated to improving health and safety for farmers, their families, and agricultural workers, supported by the Government of Canada through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. This article brings to light the essential role of farm women in agriculture, their leadership in safety practices, and the collective efforts to acknowledge and support their contributions for a more inclusive and supportive agricultural community.

Mark your calendars for one of the most anticipated agricultural event of the year, the London Farm Show, taking place from March 6-8, 2024. Located in London, Ontario, this event has been a cornerstone of the agricultural community since 1938, bringing together around 15,000 attendees to witness the latest in farm equipment and innovation. The 2024 show promises an exciting lineup of over 320 exhibitors, presenting hundreds of products and services alongside hands-on equipment demonstrations. Be sure to stop by the Farms.com Group booth #210 for a chance to win a top Spec Cast 1:16 scale Oliver Tractor from Jolley’s Farm Toys. At the Farms.com booth, you can also pick up a copy and/or subscribe to Ag Buyer’s Guide Magazine, Better Farming Magazine or Small Farm Canada – all of which will have show specials. Also be sure to attend the presentation “New lower U.S. $ index inflationary super cycle "by Moe Agostinoat 1:00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday, and 11:00 am on Friday. Among the new offerings, attendees can look forward to advancements from Ascenso Tires, Agra GPS LTD, and a host of other leading companies introducing cutting-edge solutions in agribotics, crop protection, and more. This year, the show continues to emphasize agricultural technology, education, and farm improvement. Highlights include the first agribotics exhibit introduced in the previous year, showcasing the limitless possibilities of technology in agriculture. The event also features a range of products like state-of-the-art sorting technology, controlled-environment agriculture systems, and the latest models from Deutz-Fahr. Not just for adults, the London Farm Show offers attractions for the whole family. The Case IH Pedal Tractor Course in the Family Zone, presented by ADAMA, promises fun for young attendees. Moreover, students can benefit from a $5 discount by showing their student card, opening doors to networking opportunities with industry leaders. Other attractions include exhibitor draws, expanded seating areas, and free shuttle service sponsored by Alpine. Food lovers can enjoy various offerings from inside concessions or the Field to Truck food truck located between the Agriplex and BMO Centre. For those looking to extend their stay, the Top of the Fair Restaurant offers dinner and live racing action, with reservations available for March 6 and March 8.

This week marks a pivotal gathering for Canadian agriculture as farm leaders from every corner of the nation meet in Ottawa for the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA)'s annual general meeting, says the OFA. Representing a diverse range of farming interests, from Western cattle and crop production to Eastern dairy and horticulture, these leaders are uniting to voice their concerns and forge policies for the sector's future. The agenda is packed with debates on resolutions critical for national advocacy, making this an ideal platform for engaging with federal decision-makers. Ottawa's strategic location offers a unique opportunity to directly interact with MPs, Senators, and political figures, including the federal minister of agriculture and agri-food, Lawrence MacAulay. This interaction is crucial for raising awareness about farming's role in Canadian society and the economy. The conference isn't just about today's challenges; it's forward-looking, welcoming young farmers to participate and understand the industry's issues and advocacy efforts. Topics like interest rates, inflation, trade agreements, and environmental concerns highlight the meeting's agenda, emphasizing the need for comprehensive federal support for agriculture. Agriculture holds potential solutions to societal challenges such as climate change and food security, making it imperative for the farming voice to be heard and considered in national policy discussions. This annual meeting is a step towards ensuring a united and impactful presence at the tables where decisions are made, shaping the future of Canadian agriculture for generations to come.

The number of hogs on Canadian farms as of Jan. 1 fell for the second straight time and hit the lowest in 8 years, according to a Statistics Canada livestock report Friday. The report pegged the total number of hogs nationwide atthe beginning of the New Year at 13.76 million head, down 1% from a year earlier and the lowest Jan. 1 count since 2016 at 13.63 million. Rising feed costs, labour shortages, reduced processing capacity and international market issues, especially in eastern Canada, all combined to reduce the national hog herd, StatsCan said. The problems have hit particularly hard in the largest pork production province of Quebec, where leading processor Olymel has closed several facilities and is reducing its slaughter capacity by an estimated1.6 million hogs a year.Meanwhile, amid heavy losses, it was reported late last year that more than 20%of Quebec hog producers had applied for a program to compensate farmers who sharply reduced their herds or quitthe industry altogether. At 4.16 million, the total number of hogs on Quebec farms as of Jan. 1 was down almost 5% on the year. On the other hand, Ontario numbers held mostly steady at 3.6 million, while Manitoba’s herd was up 2.4% at 3.35 million head. Alberta hog numbers were steady from the previous year at 1.53 million, with Saskatchewan down only slightly at 945,000. The national breeding herd as of Jan. 1 was estimated at 1.21 million head, a 2.2% decline compared to a year earlier, while the number of market hogs was up slightly at 2.62 million. The Canadian pig crop, which represents the number of live piglets after weaning, rose to14.9million from July to December2023, a2% increase compared with July to December2022. From July to December2023, the total hog slaughter increased1% to10.9million head, and international exports of live hogs increased7.4% to3.4million head during the same period, StatsCan said.

Statistics Canada released data on cattle, hog, and sheep inventory numbers as of January 1, 2024 as compared to January 1, 2023. Stats show the Canadian cattle herd has fallen to its lowest level in over 30 years to 11.1 million cattle and calves on farms, down 2.1 percent from the previous year. Key factors for the drop relate to the drought and tight feed supplies which put downward pressure on the cattle sector, while stronger prices saw more producers that may have been struggling with feed supplies sending some of their breeding animals to market. Statistics Canada reports as of January 1st, in Alberta, there were 4.7 million head on all beef cattle operations as of January 1st. That's down 85 thousand from a year ago. Cow/calf operations were up 18 thousand head year over year to 2.6 million, while the drop came in the feeder and stocker operations which were down over 157 thousand head to 956.6 thousand. In Saskatchewan, there were 2 million 42-thousand head on all beef cattle operations on January 1st. That's down 70 thousand from a year ago, with cow/calf operations reporting 1-million-751-thousand down 82,500 head from 2023. In Manitoba, as of January 1st, there were 843 thousand head of beef cattle down 21 thousand 500 from a year ago. with cow-calf operations down 19 thousand 300 with 650.2 thousand head reported as of January 1st, 2024. The total number of Canadian hogs on farm as of January 1, 2024, hit 13.8 million down 1 per cent from 2023 levels, with 5.9 million hogs reported on farms in the Western Provinces. In Manitoba, that included 3.3 million hogs, up from 3.2 million on January 1st, 2023. Alberta hog numbers for January 1, 2024, remained steady at 1.53 million head. While Saskatchewan's hog numbers were down about five thousand head to 945 thousand as of January 1st, 2024. Stats Canada reported the number of sheep and lambs on Canadian farms as of January 1st was over 828 thousand, with 364 thousand in the Western Prairies. As of January 1st, in Alberta, the total number of sheep and lambs was over 170 thousand with over 103 thousand sheep and over 66 thousand lambs. Sheep one year or older in Saskatchewan totaled over 47 thousand, with over 30 thousand lambs for a total of over 77 thousand animals. Manitoba reported a total of over 78 thousand head, with 37 thousand sheep and over 41 thousand lambs.

On January 1, 2024, Canadian cattle, hog and sheep inventories were down compared with the same date one year earlier. The Canadian cattle herd fell to the lowest level since January 1, 1989. Record average producer prices of Canadian cattle and calves, drought conditions, and tight feed supply continued to put downward pressure on the cattle sector, and producers responded by sending breeding stock to feedlots. Cattle and calves Canadian farmers held 11.1 million cattle and calves on their farms on January 1, 2024, down 2.1% from the same date the previous year and the smallest cattle herd size since January 1, 1989. However, in 2022, average warm carcass weights of cattle increased 18.0% compared with 1999, helping offset any decline in beef production over that period. Canadian cattle producers retained less breeding stock on January 1, 2024, with year-over-year decreases observed in all breeding stock categories. Producers held fewer feeder heifers (-0.7%), steers (-0.2%) and calves (-3.0%) compared with January 1, 2023. From July to December 2023, the total disposition of cattle and calves was up 0.9% compared with July to December 2022, while total supply was down 1.5%. From July to December 2023, international imports of cattle and calves declined 25.7% to 153,400 head, and international exports of cattle and calves increased 14.0% to 389,200 head. Hogs Canadian hog producers reported 13.8 million hogs on their farms on January 1, 2024, down 1.0% from the same date one year earlier. Quebec's hog inventories declined 4.8% amid the closure of a Quebec pork plant and herd-reducing program payments, while Manitoba's inventories increased 2.4% year over year. On January 1, 2024, hog producers reported 1.2 million sows and gilts (-2.2%), and the number of boars decreased by 3.1% year over year to 15,500 head. From July to December 2023, the total hog slaughter increased 1.0% to 10.9 million head, and international exports of live hogs increased 7.4% to 3.4 million head during the same period. The pig crop, which represents the number of live piglets after weaning, rose to 14.9 million from July to December 2023, a 2.0% increase compared with July to December 2022.

By: Farms.com The Ontario government announced an investment of up to $836,250 over three years to support rural communities. This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of volunteers and organizations across the province, with a focus on agricultural societies. "Ontario's agricultural societies play a vital role in rural communities," stated Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. "This investment demonstrates our appreciation for their dedication and leadership." The funding will be used by the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) in collaboration with the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) to deliver training and workshops. These programs will focus on leadership, governance, and community engagement, benefiting over 200 agricultural societies across Ontario. Additionally, resources will be developed to assist societies in organizing events that promote agriculture and the agri-food industry. "This initiative is an investment in the future of agricultural societies," said Vince Brennan, Executive Director of the OAAS. "It strengthens leadership, ensures the vitality of the agri-food sector, and benefits rural communities." Agricultural societies are primarily volunteer-driven organizations that play a crucial role in educating the public about agriculture and celebrating rural life. This investment supports these societies, ensuring their traditions and economic contributions can continue to thrive. By fostering leadership and engagement within the agricultural and food industry, the initiative strengthens rural communities while preserving the tradition of showcasing the "best of the best" in community, homecraft, and agricultural competitions at local fairs.

Event marks a milestone for Canadian agriculture, Canadian pork industries’ global outreach The Canadian Pork Council (CPC) celebrates the Government of Canada’s significant investment in the Asia-Pacific market by joining AAFC Minister Lawrence MacAulay in Manila to celebrate the launch of the new Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office in Manila, Philippines. This initiative, a joint venture between Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, underscores Canada’s commitment to fostering stronger ties in the Indo-Pacific region and promoting the Canadian pork industry on the international stage.

Canada’s pork industry is an economic powerhouse, employing tens of thousands of Canadians and contributing billions to Canada’s GDP. As the global demand for pork continues to increase, producers need access to the latest research and technologies to ensure they can get their high-quality products to grocery store shelves in Canada and around the world. To support and strengthen the pork sector, today, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of National Revenue, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced up to$10.6 million to Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) through the AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, an initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The Cluster seeks to enhance Canada’s leading position in the global pork sector by conducting strategic research initiatives that will advance sustainability, resilience and growth opportunities. Research activities are expected to: improve understanding of sector environmental and climate performance and strategies to reduce GHGs and environmental impacts stimulate greater productivity and product quality through new insights and technologies enhance animal welfare and respond to diseases advance the fight against antimicrobial resistance enhance the competitiveness of Canadian pork producers and processors SIP has successfully delivered the three previous Swine Clusters. Successes of the previous Clusters include feeding strategies to increase productivity, decreased antibiotic use and improved pork quality, new methods to advance biosecurity within the Canadian swine transport industry, and a tool to classify Canadian pork based on quality attributes. In addition to the Swine Cluster, Minister Bibeau also announced$1 million through the Greening Government Fund (GGF) to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) to replace the ventilation system and controls at the Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre’s swine barn with heat recovery fans capable of higher efficiency. The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat provides funding for projects under the GGF, a component of the Greening Government Strategy, which outlines targets to reduce the GHG emissions from federal operations. AAFC has also received $835,000 from the GGF to replace the current oil-based heating system in the Normandin Research Farm’s main building with a pellet biomass heating system to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Researchers with VIDO are exploring the potential of using modified brewer's yeast in place of antibiotics in the rations of young piglets.Researchers with the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization in partnership with Renaissance Bioscience with funding provided by the Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund are exploring the potential of using yeast to deliver antimicrobial peptides and essential amino acids to the gut of the pig. Dr. Heather Wilson, a Research Scientist with VIDO and an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and the School of Public Health at the University of Saskatchewan, says the goal is to develop feed supplements that will attack bacteria and viruses in the gut without the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Quote-Dr. Heather Wilson-Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization: Yeast is already used as a feed supplement so what we're doing is using the yeast as a feed supplement but we're also putting in a protein on the surface of the yeast so that the yeast, once it travels from the mouth to the stomach to the small intestine, it will attach itself to the wall of the small intestine. It'll stay there for a couple of hours and it'll eventually be degraded but, in the meantime, it's localised to the small intestine and then it will secrete these antimicrobial peptides which we hope will improve piglet health, keep them nice and healthy, especially during the stressful time when piglets are going from having mother's milk to weaning. It tends to be a very stressful time for pigs so if we can give them a little something extra to help their intestines to remain healthy it can increase their growth which will eventually lead to their better wellbeing and hopefully they'll gain weight faster and so it'll be better for the producers as well. Dr. Wilson notes this work is in its early days and will take a few years to yield results.To learn more about this work email heather.wilson@usask.ca. For more visit Farmscape.Ca.

The Government of Canada, Swine Innovation Porc and their research partners have officially launched the Swine Cluster 4 research program. The Swine Cluster research program is an initiative which unites industry, government and academic partners around shared research priorities focused on fostering continued sustainability, resiliency and growth in the Canadian pork sector. Pork sector stakeholders gathered yesterday in Sherbrooke, Quebec for the official launch of Swine Cluster 4.SIP Chair Arno Schober explains the Swine Cluster 4 program was developed using a highly collaborative approach intended to facilitate a research agenda that targets key pork industry priorities while avoiding duplication of efforts. Quote-Arno Schober-Swine Innovation Porc: The cluster is a five-year program and the total amount money allocated is just over 20 million dollars and it is really important for us to recognise that the Government of Canada is providing 10.6 million dollars to our cluster.The priorities are climate change and environment, economic growth and development and sector resilience and societal challenges. This approach is a collaboration across the country.In total we have about 13 research institutions that are part of Cluster 4, we have about 36 industry partners in this cluster and we have about 50 researchers with their projects and sub projects that are part of this. When you look at that, I would say that pretty much every swine research facility across Canada is part of this cluster and each project also has several sub projects so we're basically getting a collaboration from all swine researchers in Canada more or less. Schober notes there's a lot of feed produced in Canada and lots of space to raise livestock.He says, with 70 percent of its pork production exported, we need to have the research in place that will ensure Canada can stay competitive in the world export market.

Research funded by the Swine Health Information Center has shown Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae serotype 15 is capable of surviving colder temperatures than previously thought.Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is a bacterial infection that results in coughing, high fever, respiratory distress and high mortality. In response to a severe outbreak of APP serotype 15 in finishing barns in Iowa in 2021, Iowa State University conducted a series of studies to compare different strains and define the risks posed by this emerging infection. Swine Health Information Center Associate Director Dr. Lisa Becton says researchers looked at sows from farms that suppled pigs to outbreak locations and at finisher pigs that had gone through an outbreak. Quote-Dr. Lisa Becton-Swine Health Information Center: It was noted that APP 15 could survive at minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit for seven days and 72 hours at just below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.But also of note was the survivability on different surfaces such as concrete, rubber and steel with concrete being the longest at seven-day survivability.The significance of these things, it does give us a bit of insight. While we had PCR positives but no bacteria cultured at the rendering, this is an area that shows there could be a backflow of bacteria into the finisher locations that were impacted.The increased survivability during cold weather also challenges the thought that this bacteria may not survive in cold weather. That could be another plausible reason why the bacteria was able to survive and transmit. If we look at the temperatures during the period of the outbreak, it was determined there was cold ambient temperatures that the bacterial could potentially have survived in.So, it gives us some insight into how this bacteria may have been able to get into a location and survive and then subsequently spread to multiple locations. Dr. Becton says this work adds to our body of knowledge and can be used by producers, veterinarians and even other researchers. Full results of this work can be accessed at swinehealth.org.

Research conducted as part of the NSERC Indistrial Research Chair in Swine Welfare research program has shown management modifications made during the lactation and nursery periods of development result in easier handling and increased average daily gain through the entire life of the pig.How early life management of pigs influences long-term welfare was discussed as part of a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Chair in Swine Welfare Research Forum held last month in conjunction with the Banff Pork Seminar. Siba Khalife, a PhD candidate swine behavior and welfare at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, explains researchers compared the lifetime effects of management modifications during the lactation period, the nursery period and both, including the provision of chewable materials such as burlap and rope, increased space to facilitate play and increased human contact. Quote-Siba Khalife-Western College of Veterinary Medicine: What we have right now is data that is being taken at all different stages of the production cycle following the same pigs so that we can see the development of their behavior and of their growth.This data is tail biting data that we took, we also took data measuring the handleability of the pigs to see if they were any easier to handle. We also took average daily gain data from different parts of the production cycle including birth, farrowing, weaning and then the middle of the grower stage and slaughter.We're wanting to compare this data so that we can see if the growth trajectory of the pigs are any different if they were given those early life management modifications or not. So far what we have is preliminary data.We're still working on analysing everything but we do know that the pigs were easier to handle if they were given the early life modifications in both the lactation and the nursery periods.At the end of nursery, we realised that they were easier to handle and they also had higher average daily gain.

The Swine Health Information Center has issued a call for research proposals targeting priorities identified in its 2024 Plan of Work.The Swine Health Information Center is inviting submissions to address 11 of the 36 research priorities outlined in its 2024 Plan of Work. SHIC Executive Director Dr. Megan Niederwerder says 1.1 million dollars is being made available for the 2024 Plan of Work Research Program priorities with individual project budgets expected to be between 50 thousand and 150 thousand dollars. Quote-Dr. Megan Niederwerder-Swine Health Information Center: There are three primary areas in the request for proposals.One is monitoring and mitigating risks to swine health, the second one is responding to emerging disease and the third one is surveillance and discovery and emerging disease. These proposals are due on March 1st and one of the primary areas within the proposal that we're encouraging researchers to develop is to clearly identify which of the research priorities their proposal addresses.Within those large groups of pillars of strategic priorities, we're looking for proposals specifically on areas such as cull sow market biosecurity and how to we enhance disease surveillance in that population. We're also looking for proposals on engineering biosecurity control through either new site construction or strategic renovation.We're also looking at areas such as improving the diagnostic tools for diseases such as porcine circovirus two, three and four.We're really looking at areas in which we can enhance surveillance and monitoring for emerging swine diseases as well as respond and improve biosecurity in some of these other populations. Dr. Niederwerder says collaborative projects that include the pork industry, allied industries, academic institutions, and/or public/private partnerships are highly encouraged.The complete request for proposals, including a proposal template and a detailed outline of research priorities can be found on SHIC's website at swinehealth.org.