14 The Trusted Source for Canada’s Pork Producers Better Pork | December 2023 put bigger sows in loose housing and if they become a problem, we can shift them to the lift crates. How is loose housing working for your herd? It is beneficial for us as long as we keep good track of things. The biggest plus is that sows prefer it over stalls. We notice that as soon as we move them from the breeding stalls, they walk right out. Loose housing allows us to utilize ESF, so we can feed the animals exactly what they need based on weight, size and age. Any advice on transition planning? I advise people to start early, as it is a long process. Even if you just begin by doing a little bit every year, I think that makes the overall process easier to manage. Most important lesson learned? I try not to get frustrated by the little things, although that can be tough at times. I sometimes look back on how I handled a certain situation and am displeased with the way I reacted, but I’m working on it. If I have kids that end up getting involved in the business, I’ll tell them to take their time with the animals and don’t rush them; let them come to you. Guiding management principle? My main management principle is to let my sister handle that end of the operation, as it’s not my greatest strength. Cassie is currently taking a leadership program to learn more about effective management practices. Your biggest farming challenge? I think the main challenge is that we are land-based. We are trying to find more land now to expand our cropping operation (corn, soybeans and wheat rotation on 400 acres), but prices and interest rates are high. What are the most exciting opportunities in the industry? I find it fascinating what they are doing with genetics these days, such as exploring ways of addressing disease pressures. It amazes me how quickly genetics are evolving throughout the hog industry. I’m also pleased to see medications for pigs becoming better and more efficient. We’re getting more information all the time on different treatments you can use in the barn. There is a greater volume of research on this area than ever before, and it is more accessible than it has been in the past. If you could send a message to non-farmers, what would it be? They generally only show the worst stuff about our industry on the news. People need to realize that most farms are not like that, and they treat their animals well. If you care for your pigs, UNPu tCrLiOeSnEt L o s s Mitch Van Engelen photo Mitch, Cassie, John and Blue. … the top producers across Canada for just PENNIES per adult reader! Paul.Nolan@Farms.com ADVERTISERS REACH ...
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTc0MDI3