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The Alberta SPCA will answer calls to Alberta Farm Animal Care’s (AFAC) ALERT Line. The phone number, 1-800-506-2273, is available for people who have questions or concerns about livestock and animal welfare. This change took effect on March 21 and is in response to AFAC’s closure. AFAC announced the closure on March 1 citing a lack of resources. AFAC reps are happy the ALERT Line will still be available to Albertans. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to sustain the ALERT Line though the support of the Alberta SPCA to ensure continuity for livestock and the people who care for them in the province,” AFAC Board Chair Merna Gisler said in a statement. And the SPCA is ready to offer support to those who contact them through the ALERT Line. “This is another great opportunity for the Alberta SPCA to connect with rural Albertans when they need us,” Doug Sawyer, chair of the Alberta SPCA board, said in a statement.

Canadian agriculture has received a significant boost from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) with the recent announcement to increase the interest-free portion of the Advanced Payments Program (APP) to $250,000 says the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA). The initiative is designed to support farmers by providing loans that help manage cash-flow challenges and cover increased production costs effectively. Historically, in response to the pandemic's economic impact, the government had elevated the interest-free loan amount to $250,000 in 2022, and then to $350,000 in 2023, aiming to assist farmers with the soaring expenses for essential inputs like fertilizer and fuel. There were plans to revert the interest-free portion back to $100,000 in 2024, which had raised concerns among the farming community. The CFA has been at the forefront, vocally advocating for the retention of the increased interest-free portion, citing the severe inflationary pressures that have burdened producers since the original $100,000 cap was instituted. CFA President, Keith Currie, expressed relief and approval of the announcement, highlighting the crucial timing and financial relief it provides to farmers, who must often invest in the next season's production without having received payment for the previous season. This move has been seen as a direct response to the advocacy and needs of the farming community, reflecting an understanding of the financial pressures faced in modern agriculture. The decision to maintain the interest-free loan amount at $250,000 is viewed as a step towards establishing a new baseline for future interest-free advances, with hopes that the program will continue to adapt to the evolving economic landscape faced by Canadian farmers. The enhancement of the APP reflects a commitment by the Canadian government to support the agriculture sector's sustainability and profitability. It acknowledges the essential role farmers play in the economy and the unique financial challenges they face, especially in an era of increasing costs and economic uncertainty. The farming community has welcomed this development, viewing it as a vital support mechanism for ensuring the continuity and success of Canadian agriculture. See related story: Grain Farmers of Ontario acknowledge the federal increase to the Advance Payments Program

Image by krystianwin from Pixabay The Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) have thanked Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Minister Lawrence MacAulay for increasing the interest-free limit of the for this year. The gives producers access to cash advances of up to $1 million based on the expected value of their crop or other agricultural product. Farmers receive the first $100,000 interest-free, and the AAFC can raise that limit if the season warrants it. This year, the limit of the interest-free portion has been raised to $250,000. Under the , cash advances are calculated based on up to 50 percent of the anticipated market value of eligible agricultural products that will be produced or are in storage. Advances are available on over 500 crop and livestock products across Canada. “Farmers face a lot of uncertainties and unpredictability. When the weather is bad or prices are low, Ontario’s family farms can be quickly impacted. We appreciate the government’s decision to increase this limit and the access to interest-free loans this will provide farmers,” said Jeff Harrison, Chair of the GFO. He continued: “Grain Farmers of Ontario has been advocating to increase the limit for some time, and it is good to see that hard work pay off. We look forward to working with the government on continued improvements to this and other risk programs and to any adjustments that might need to be made in the future.” In 2022, due to exceptional circumstances, the Government of Canada increased the interest-free portion of the from $100,000 to $250,000 for the 2022 and 2023 program years. As pressures compounded in 2023, the limit was further increased from $250,000 to $350,000 for the 2023 program year. The GFO is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers. For more information on the GFO, visit www.gfo.ca.

As the growing season takes root across Ontario, fruit and vegetable producers are already laying the groundwork for a successful harvest. A key part of their preparation is addressing the perennial challenge of securing enough labour to manage the intensive demands of planting, tending, and harvesting crops. This challenge is met with a solution that has a rich history and critical impact on Canada's food supply: the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). Established over 50 years ago, SAWP has become an essential component in Ontario agriculture, acting as a bridge between local labour shortages and the need for a reliable workforce. This year, about 18,000 seasonal workers from countries including Mexico, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Eastern Caribbean are expected to join Ontario's farms. Their arrival is not just a boon for the approximately 1,100 farms that will benefit from their labour but also for Canadian families who enjoy fresh, local produce as a result. The reliance on SAWP highlights a broader issue within the agricultural sector: a significant shortage of domestic workers. This gap in the workforce is not just a logistical problem for farmers; it represents a substantial economic loss, estimated at around $1.5 billion annually. This shortfall affects not only individual farms but also Canada's competitive standing in the global market. Ken Forth, president of F.A.R.M.S. (not affiliated with this website), is at the forefront of this issue, advocating for the importance of SAWP in ensuring the resilience and success of Ontario's agricultural sector. In a time when food security and sustainable local production are more crucial than ever, the program's role in supporting farmers is invaluable. Through programs like SAWP, Ontario's agricultural community continues to thrive, providing essential resources for both local communities and the broader Canadian population.

Just as only you know when you're thirsty, so too are plants the only ones that know when they require water. If only there was a way to communicate with a plant to find out when exactly that is. But wait! Say hello to , a precision agriculture technology—an easy-to-install water sensor—that provides accurate, real-time feedback on plant thirst, allowing farmers to make fast decisions to better benefit their crops. Developing a way to acquire data directly from plants, FloraPulse is now able to provide ag professionals such as woody crop owners and managers, nut and dry fruit growers, fresh fruit growers, commercial orchard/vineyard operators, government and university researchers, certified crop consultants, scientists, and more with accurate, automated measurements on plant water status. It said its technology works best—right now—for orchards and vineyards, with the company saying it is ideal for such crops as almonds, hazelnuts, wine grapes, apples, peaches, and berries. The system is comprised of patented hardware, software, and technical support for each user to directly manage water stress, reducing water and labor costs and risks while increasing yields, crop quality, and environmental health. FloraPulse provides growers and researchers with accurate and trusted automated measurements of water stress directly from trees and vines. The patented technology—used worldwide—provides science-based advice to optimize irrigation, increase profits, and valuable research data. The was developed via the research and collaboration of Cornell University’s emeritus professor of horticulture, Alan Lakso, Director of the Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Abraham Strook, and mechanical engineering Ph.D. and technology developer, Michael Santiago. “FloraPulse is a game-changer for the entire agricultural industry,” said Lakso. “After years of research and development, our team created the first simple-to-use device that provides farmers and researchers with real-time data that helps growers and researchers achieve efficient water use in the face of variable climate conditions.” The company’s revolutionary real-time water sensing technology allows for more resilient plant health systems that enhance our agricultural system and farmers’ bottom lines. The team offers premium technical support and assistance. For more information, visit www.florapulse.com.

By Ryan Ridley Managing Editor, Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest The first issue of 2024 is upon us for the Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest. The Spring 2024 issue will be released within a couple of weeks, and it is packed with new innovations from some of the biggest names in the industry. This year has not disappointed so far, and after speaking with dozens of companies at the 2024 National Farm Machinery Show (NFMS), I am convinced the best is yet to come. As previously reported by our very own Diego Flammini, Farms.com yielded more than 70 videos from the NFMS and will be releasing special edition Machinery Newsletters in the coming weeks—stay tuned for that. Precision agriculture and ag technology ran wild at the NFMS this year, so much so that the 2024 Spring Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest will have a special PAG Tech Clips section featuring our top 10 tech videos from the event. Our main articles will cover a few newly released products, including Case IH’s new AF11 combine and Precision Planting’s new CornerStone planting system. Cannot forget about Kinze’s brand-new 5670 pivot fold planter as well as real-time spot spraying tech from Trimble-owned Bilberry. Oh, and Massey Ferguson has retrofit baler tech, SimplEbale, that brings large-square bale technology to small-square balers. We are sure you have heard of John Deere partnering with SpaceX, but we provide a unique angle on that as well. Our team cannot wait for you to get your hands on...get your keyboards/mouses on…the Spring 2024 Precision Ag Digital Digest. Refer to this link in a week or so and the new issue will be there! In the meantime, flip through our Winter 2023/2024 issue, it has lots of good stuff.

Manitoba Pork Credit Corporation welcomed yesterday’s announcement by Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay, increasing the interest-free limit of the Advanced Payments Program from $100,000 to $250,000, at a time when producers are coming out of an extended period of tight margins. “Hog farmers have faced incredibly tight margins over the last 18 months, with high feed and input costs that have threatened their bottom line,” said Cam Dahl, CEO of the Manitoba Pork Credit Corporation and Manitoba Pork’s general manager. “We are pleased to see the federal government recognize these challenges and act to provide producers with access to capital that can be used with less interest.” The Advance Payments Program is a vehicle that provides producers across commodities with access to low-cost advances of up to $1 million, based on the value of their product. This announcement allows for the first $250,000 to be interest free, which will help hog farmers with cash flow and savings on interest they would have otherwise paid. Last year, Manitoba Pork Credit Corporation borrowed over $21.2 million to producers across Western Canada.

By Farms.com Making their farm community proud, two finalists from the 4-H Canada Science Fair, Mark Norregaard and Nia Smith, are set to advance to the prestigious 2024 Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF). This national event celebrates the brightest young minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across Canada. Norregaard, a 17-year-old from Balzac, AB, has previously made waves at the 4-H Canada Science Fair, this year marking his fifth appearance as a finalist. His latest project delves into the health of calf populations, comparing the responses of vaccinated versus non-vaccinated calves to prevent outbreaks of Bovine Respiratory Disease. On the other hand, Smith, a 14-year-old newcomer from Brandon, MB, has taken a different approach, focusing on the efficacy of home hydroponic systems. Her research aims to determine the best medium for seed germination in hydroponic setups, a key factor for successful home gardening. Their achievements have not only earned them spots at the CWSF but have also highlighted the ongoing commitment of 4-H Canada to STEM education. Supported by partners like Bayer CropScience Canada and the Government of Canada, the 4-H Canada Science Fair provides a platform for young innovators to tackle real-world problems with creative solutions. As the interest in STEM continues to grow among Canada's youth, initiatives like the 4-H Canada Science Fair are crucial for nurturing the next generation of leaders in science and agriculture. Congratulations to Mark and Nia on their achievements and best of luck at the Canada-Wide Science Fair!

Just as only you know when you're thirsty, so too are plants the only ones that know when they require water. If only there was a way to communicate with a plant to find out when exactly that is. But wait! Say hello to , a precision agriculture technology—an easy-to-install water sensor—that provides accurate, real-time feedback on plant thirst, allowing farmers to make fast decisions to better benefit their crops. Developing a way to acquire data directly from plants, FloraPulse is now able to provide ag professionals such as woody crop owners and managers, nut and dry fruit growers, fresh fruit growers, commercial orchard/vineyard operators, government and university researchers, certified crop consultants, scientists, and more with accurate, automated measurements on plant water status. It said its technology works best—right now—for orchards and vineyards, with the company saying it is ideal for such crops as almonds, hazelnuts, wine grapes, apples, peaches, and berries. The system is comprised of patented hardware, software, and technical support for each user to directly manage water stress, reducing water and labor costs and risks while increasing yields, crop quality, and environmental health. FloraPulse provides growers and researchers with accurate and trusted automated measurements of water stress directly from trees and vines. The patented technology—used worldwide—provides science-based advice to optimize irrigation, increase profits, and valuable research data. The was developed via the research and collaboration of Cornell University’s emeritus professor of horticulture, Alan Lakso, Director of the Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Abraham Strook, and mechanical engineering Ph.D. and technology developer, Michael Santiago. “FloraPulse is a game-changer for the entire agricultural industry,” said Lakso. “After years of research and development, our team created the first simple-to-use device that provides farmers and researchers with real-time data that helps growers and researchers achieve efficient water use in the face of variable climate conditions.” The company’s revolutionary real-time water sensing technology allows for more resilient plant health systems that enhance our agricultural system and farmers’ bottom lines. The team offers premium technical support and assistance. For more information, visit www.florapulse.com.

By Ryan Ridley Managing Editor, Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest The first issue of 2024 is upon us for the Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest. The Spring 2024 issue will be released within a couple of weeks, and it is packed with new innovations from some of the biggest names in the industry. This year has not disappointed so far, and after speaking with dozens of companies at the 2024 National Farm Machinery Show (NFMS), I am convinced the best is yet to come. As previously reported by our very own Diego Flammini, Farms.com yielded more than 70 videos from the NFMS and will be releasing special edition Machinery Newsletters in the coming weeks—stay tuned for that. Precision agriculture and ag technology ran wild at the NFMS this year, so much so that the 2024 Spring Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest will have a special PAG Tech Clips section featuring our top 10 tech videos from the event. Our main articles will cover a few newly released products, including Case IH’s new AF11 combine and Precision Planting’s new CornerStone planting system. Cannot forget about Kinze’s brand-new 5670 pivot fold planter as well as real-time spot spraying tech from Trimble-owned Bilberry. Oh, and Massey Ferguson has retrofit baler tech, SimplEbale, that brings large-square bale technology to small-square balers. We are sure you have heard of John Deere partnering with SpaceX, but we provide a unique angle on that as well. Our team cannot wait for you to get your hands on...get your keyboards/mouses on…the Spring 2024 Precision Ag Digital Digest. Refer to this link in a week or so and the new issue will be there! In the meantime, flip through our Winter 2023/2024 issue, it has lots of good stuff.

Canadian agriculture has received a significant boost from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) with the recent announcement to increase the interest-free portion of the Advanced Payments Program (APP) to $250,000 says the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA). The initiative is designed to support farmers by providing loans that help manage cash-flow challenges and cover increased production costs effectively. Historically, in response to the pandemic's economic impact, the government had elevated the interest-free loan amount to $250,000 in 2022, and then to $350,000 in 2023, aiming to assist farmers with the soaring expenses for essential inputs like fertilizer and fuel. There were plans to revert the interest-free portion back to $100,000 in 2024, which had raised concerns among the farming community. The CFA has been at the forefront, vocally advocating for the retention of the increased interest-free portion, citing the severe inflationary pressures that have burdened producers since the original $100,000 cap was instituted. CFA President, Keith Currie, expressed relief and approval of the announcement, highlighting the crucial timing and financial relief it provides to farmers, who must often invest in the next season's production without having received payment for the previous season. This move has been seen as a direct response to the advocacy and needs of the farming community, reflecting an understanding of the financial pressures faced in modern agriculture. The decision to maintain the interest-free loan amount at $250,000 is viewed as a step towards establishing a new baseline for future interest-free advances, with hopes that the program will continue to adapt to the evolving economic landscape faced by Canadian farmers. The enhancement of the APP reflects a commitment by the Canadian government to support the agriculture sector's sustainability and profitability. It acknowledges the essential role farmers play in the economy and the unique financial challenges they face, especially in an era of increasing costs and economic uncertainty. The farming community has welcomed this development, viewing it as a vital support mechanism for ensuring the continuity and success of Canadian agriculture. See related story: Grain Farmers of Ontario acknowledge the federal increase to the Advance Payments Program

Image by krystianwin from Pixabay The Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) have thanked Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Minister Lawrence MacAulay for increasing the interest-free limit of the for this year. The gives producers access to cash advances of up to $1 million based on the expected value of their crop or other agricultural product. Farmers receive the first $100,000 interest-free, and the AAFC can raise that limit if the season warrants it. This year, the limit of the interest-free portion has been raised to $250,000. Under the , cash advances are calculated based on up to 50 percent of the anticipated market value of eligible agricultural products that will be produced or are in storage. Advances are available on over 500 crop and livestock products across Canada. “Farmers face a lot of uncertainties and unpredictability. When the weather is bad or prices are low, Ontario’s family farms can be quickly impacted. We appreciate the government’s decision to increase this limit and the access to interest-free loans this will provide farmers,” said Jeff Harrison, Chair of the GFO. He continued: “Grain Farmers of Ontario has been advocating to increase the limit for some time, and it is good to see that hard work pay off. We look forward to working with the government on continued improvements to this and other risk programs and to any adjustments that might need to be made in the future.” In 2022, due to exceptional circumstances, the Government of Canada increased the interest-free portion of the from $100,000 to $250,000 for the 2022 and 2023 program years. As pressures compounded in 2023, the limit was further increased from $250,000 to $350,000 for the 2023 program year. The GFO is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers. For more information on the GFO, visit www.gfo.ca.

By Farms.com World Dairy Expo proudly reveals the distinguished recipients of the 2024 Expo Recognition Awards. These remarkable individuals, chosen by their peers for their outstanding contributions to both the dairy industry and their communities, will be formally acknowledged during the Recognition Awards Banquet at the World Dairy Expo on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Banquet tickets will be available at www.worlddairyexpo.com beginning on July 1. Acknowledged as the International Person of the Year is Paul Larmer, hailing from Guelph, Ontario, Canada, and affiliated with Semex. With a career spanning four decades, Larmer has been a driving force in dairy cattle genetics, leaving a significant mark on a global scale. Beginning his journey in the genetics industry in 1984, Larmer held pivotal roles at United Breeders Inc., Semex Alliance, and Alta Genetics Inc. before assuming the position of Chief Executive Officer at Semex in 2007. During his tenure, Larmer steered Semex to unparalleled success, achieving a remarkable 17 consecutive years of record-breaking sales and revenues. Under his leadership, Semex introduced six Millionaire Sires to the industry and spearheaded groundbreaking research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing dairy technology and genetics worldwide. Noteworthy projects included advancements in China's dairy technology and genetics, the establishment of production centers in Hungary and Brazil, and the pioneering introduction of a Methane Efficiency Index to promote industry sustainability globally. Though Larmer retired from his role as CEO in December 2023, he continues to serve as an Executive Advisor, bringing invaluable expertise to Semex. World Dairy Expo, renowned as the premier gathering of the global dairy community, provides an unparalleled platform for learning, networking, commerce, and competition. Scheduled to take place in Madison, Wis. from October 1-4, 2024, the event promises dairy producers an immersive experience featuring the world's largest dairy-focused trade show, top-tier dairy cattle showcase, informative seminars, and opportunities for industry networking and collaboration.

Just as only you know when you're thirsty, so too are plants the only ones that know when they require water. If only there was a way to communicate with a plant to find out when exactly that is. But wait! Say hello to , a precision agriculture technology—an easy-to-install water sensor—that provides accurate, real-time feedback on plant thirst, allowing farmers to make fast decisions to better benefit their crops. Developing a way to acquire data directly from plants, FloraPulse is now able to provide ag professionals such as woody crop owners and managers, nut and dry fruit growers, fresh fruit growers, commercial orchard/vineyard operators, government and university researchers, certified crop consultants, scientists, and more with accurate, automated measurements on plant water status. It said its technology works best—right now—for orchards and vineyards, with the company saying it is ideal for such crops as almonds, hazelnuts, wine grapes, apples, peaches, and berries. The system is comprised of patented hardware, software, and technical support for each user to directly manage water stress, reducing water and labor costs and risks while increasing yields, crop quality, and environmental health. FloraPulse provides growers and researchers with accurate and trusted automated measurements of water stress directly from trees and vines. The patented technology—used worldwide—provides science-based advice to optimize irrigation, increase profits, and valuable research data. The was developed via the research and collaboration of Cornell University’s emeritus professor of horticulture, Alan Lakso, Director of the Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Abraham Strook, and mechanical engineering Ph.D. and technology developer, Michael Santiago. “FloraPulse is a game-changer for the entire agricultural industry,” said Lakso. “After years of research and development, our team created the first simple-to-use device that provides farmers and researchers with real-time data that helps growers and researchers achieve efficient water use in the face of variable climate conditions.” The company’s revolutionary real-time water sensing technology allows for more resilient plant health systems that enhance our agricultural system and farmers’ bottom lines. The team offers premium technical support and assistance. For more information, visit www.florapulse.com.

BASF Digital Farming and Richardson Pioneer have announced the first commercial agreement for xarvio FIELD MANAGER between the two parties. Through this agreement, Richardson will bring the FIELD MANAGER platform to its whole network, including the four provinces in Western Canada. The FIELD MANAGER platform has four main components – field monitoring, seeding, nutrient management and crop protection. The nutrient management portion of the platform, for example, lets users create field-zone specific application maps for N, P & K. And users can document and create VRA maps for organic fertilizer and custom fertilizer. This agreement allows Richardson agronomists to offer farmers more precise recommendations. Those recommendations from xarvio FIELD MANAGER are based on local conditions and 15 years of biomass imagery and satellite data. Continuous monitoring, field trials and work from BASF agronomists help support the platform’s decisions. In canola trials in 2022/23, for example, the platform “consistently predicted economically significant field-specific Sclerotinia disease incidence,” a BASF statement says. “Spraying for Sclerotinia at the optimal time can help to effectively protect yield and improve ROI, particularly in higher-yiel

By Ryan Ridley Managing Editor, Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest The first issue of 2024 is upon us for the Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest. The Spring 2024 issue will be released within a couple of weeks, and it is packed with new innovations from some of the biggest names in the industry. This year has not disappointed so far, and after speaking with dozens of companies at the 2024 National Farm Machinery Show (NFMS), I am convinced the best is yet to come. As previously reported by our very own Diego Flammini, Farms.com yielded more than 70 videos from the NFMS and will be releasing special edition Machinery Newsletters in the coming weeks—stay tuned for that. Precision agriculture and ag technology ran wild at the NFMS this year, so much so that the 2024 Spring Farms.com Precision Ag Digital Digest will have a special PAG Tech Clips section featuring our top 10 tech videos from the event. Our main articles will cover a few newly released products, including Case IH’s new AF11 combine and Precision Planting’s new CornerStone planting system. Cannot forget about Kinze’s brand-new 5670 pivot fold planter as well as real-time spot spraying tech from Trimble-owned Bilberry. Oh, and Massey Ferguson has retrofit baler tech, SimplEbale, that brings large-square bale technology to small-square balers. We are sure you have heard of John Deere partnering with SpaceX, but we provide a unique angle on that as well. Our team cannot wait for you to get your hands on...get your keyboards/mouses on…the Spring 2024 Precision Ag Digital Digest. Refer to this link in a week or so and the new issue will be there! In the meantime, flip through our Winter 2023/2024 issue, it has lots of good stuff.

Manitoba's pork producers are calling on the federal government to replace its policy of taxing farmers to stimulate decreased fossil fuel use with one where incentives are offered to stimulate the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices and technologies.An article distributed through Manitoba newspapers and posted to Manitoba Pork's website looks at the economic challenges faced by farmers as they work to reduce their carbon footprint. Cam Dahl, the General Manager of Manitoba Pork, suggests the federal carbon tax has been ineffective in reducing fossil fuel use and has actually made it harder for farmers to afford to adopt new innovations. Quote-Cam Dahl-Manitoba Pork: The objective of the carbon tax is to encourage people to use less fossil fuels but that's not really possible if you're heating a barn.It's not a discretionary cost.It's not something you can choose to do less of so really what this means is that has just been another added cost to the bottom line and again, it's been difficult for a couple of years and farmers can't afford to have additional costs added to their balance sheet and that's really what has happened. At the same time, we're competing in international markets and our prices are set in international markets and our competitors don't face this cost.We have a government policy that isn't accomplishing its goals because it's not reducing the use of fossil fuels and at the same time it's making Canadian farmers, Canadian hog producers less competitive internationally.It's a double shot and there are better ways of moving to more environmentally sustainable practices and the carbon tax is not the right way for agriculture. Dahl suggests we should be looking at ways of incentivizing the adoption of new environmentally sustainable practices and reducing the associated risks for farmers.He says that would encourage the adoption of practices that are more environmentally sustainable while reducing farmers' costs, not increasing them. The full article can be accessed at manitobapork.com.

A researcher with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine is encouraging pork producers to consider the positive health and economic effects of exposing their pigs to opportunities for play. Research conducted through the NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Swine Welfare Research Program shows grower finisher pigs exposed to play will display less aggression, recover quicker when exposed to disease and demonstrate higher average daily gain, than those not exposed to play.Karolina Steinerova, a PhD student with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, says this work has multiple implications. Quote-Karolina Steinerova-Western College of Veterinary Medicine: We know that pigs play when they are young, between two to six weeks of age and they perform excitable movement during locomotive play, they play together so that's social play, they also like to play with objects.They also like to play with objects.That's all happening during early development and we know it has benefits for their development. It enhances social skills, cognition, and also motor skills but we really wanted to know whether this can be carried over to later stages of the production and how it influences the pig later in life.This project is targeting producers.We would really like them to embrace the value of positive welfare through promotion of play and also try to understand that it can be beneficial to promote positive welfare on farm. We also want to incorporate this into animal care assessment programs and add it to Pork Quality Assurance.This work can also open doors for international markets demanding higher welfare or also create opportunities for niche markets.So really now we want to make play promotion more applicable for producers, for example, through enrichment routines or management tasks with consideration for pig preferences, which is the preference for novelty and also create positive associations with the pig and the stakeholder. Full details of this research can be accessed at swinewelfare.com. For more visit Farmscape.Ca.

The Director of Swine Health with Manitoba Pork says lessons learned from the province's 2021-2022 Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea outbreak are helping pork producers prepare for the next potential outbreak.The latest major PED outbreak in Manitoba, which began in October 2021 and peaked in January 2022 resulting in 129 farms infected, was declared over in late 2023. Jenelle Hamblin, the Director of Swine Health with Manitoba Pork, says the 2021-22 outbreak differed markedly from previous outbreaks, primary in terms of the time of year that it occurred. Quote-Jenelle Hamblin-Manitoba Pork: The response did primarily occur in the winter months.In 2017 and 2019 we were in the thick of things between April and October.This 2021-22 outbreak was October through till March.This really was the main point of time when the outbreak was flaring up.We never fought PED in the winter before and it was an especially cold and blizzardy winter through October of 21 through March of 2022. It was a nasty winter that year and that really made practicing biosecurity and performing effective cleaning and disinfection very difficult.We also saw in 2021-22, farms were taking a longer period of time to reach that transitional status, the status of where any animals on the farm that are PED positive have been removed or deemed no longer a risk for PED. We attributed this to a number of factors, including delays in transporting animals due to these blizzard conditions.We weren't actually able to remove PED pigs off of farms because of delays in transport with snowstorms and safety.This was certainly something we had never managed before and learned a lot from. Hamblin says pork producers and industry stakeholders across the board are on high alert coming into the spring of 2024 and are working hard on preparations for the potential of new cases of PED this spring. For more visit Farmscape.Ca.

The Associate Director of the Swine Health Information Center is advising pork producers to step up their focus on biosecurity in the face of porcine circovirus.In February the Swine Health Information Center and American Association of Swine Veterinarians hosted webinar that looked at emerging trends related porcine circovirus, a multisystemic inflammatory viral infection of pigs that is considered to be among the top three disease challenges encountered by veterinarians in the field. Dr. Lisa Becton, the Associate Director of the Swine Health Information Center, explains there are four main genotypes of porcine circovirus and this webinar was intended to address questions about these pathogens and how the diagnosis and treatment of the four genotypes differ. Quote-Dr. Lisa Becton-Swine Health Information Center: PCV diagnosis and interpretation of results isn't quite as easy as some of the other diseases that we face.It's very important to understand the clinical picture that is being seen and the reason for samples being submitted and then compare that to what are the diagnostic results because it really is important to guide what questions are you asking, what are the clinical signs of concern and also are you testing at the right age or stage of growth to be able to answer those questions? The other impact is looking at is how do coinfections with things like PRRS or Influenza or Mycoplasma, how do they also impact the clinical presentation of PCV.Taking all of those pieces of information together is really important to try to understand what's happening on the herd and where can someone intervene to help improve herd health? Dr. Becton notes, because circovirus is very hardy and can be transmitted in multiple ways, producers need to maintain their focus on biosecurity. The porcine circovirus webinar can be accessed through the swinehealth.org web site under podcasts and webinars and there is a direct link in the Swine Health Information Center March eNewsletter.