A Chinese takeover of Smithfields? Monday, August 5, 2013 Last year was financially unkind to Smithfield Foods Inc., the largest pork producer in the United States. While full year sales were up a full percentage point to US$13.2 billion, net income was down to $183.8 million, nearly a 50 per cent drop from $361 million a year before.The company's press release said pork production was not a money maker last year because of higher feed costs and other inputs. Any pork producer could have told you that.No wonder shareholders were enthusiastic about Shuanghui International, the largest butcher in China, taking over Smithfield sometime in the next six months. Shuanghui was offering US$31 a share for Smithfield Foods stock, a 31 per cent premium over the previous trading price of $25.75. The sale requires federal government approval.Shareholders aren't the only ones wondering where this is going. Producers across North America wonder what it will mean if a firm from China, the largest pork consumer and producer in the world, acquires the Smithfield company, if indeed the sale is approved. Is this more pork going to China and away from North American markets, or what else might happen? BP Coping with the wild boar invasion Tennessee backs down on ag-gag law
OVC Veterinarian Helps Pets During Wildfire Crisis Tuesday, September 1, 2026 When wildfires forced many Northern Ontario families to leave their homes, veterinary support became an important part of emergency response efforts. An Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) veterinarian stepped in to provide care for pets affected by theevacuationsaccording to the OVC... Read this article online
Churchill Port Resumes Grain Exports with Durum Wheat Shipment Tuesday, September 1, 2026 The Port of Churchill has marked a significant milestone with the loading of its first grain export vessel since 2020. The ship is carrying approximately 30,000 tonnes of Canadian durum wheat supplied by Saskatchewan-based AGT Foods and is scheduled to depart for Europe this week. The... Read this article online
David Hansen Earns Top Wheat Growers Honor Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Earlier this summer, the Wheat Growers Association awardedDavidHansenthe 2026 recipient of the Shovel of Gratitude Award, one of the highest honors presented by the organization. The award recognizes individuals whose leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on Canadian... Read this article online
Cover Crops Influence Corn’s Natural Pest Defences Tuesday, September 1, 2026 The choice of cover crop may do more than improve soil health and nutrient cycling. New research from Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences suggests it can also influence how crops defend themselves against insect pests, creating opportunities for farmers to enhance biological pest... Read this article online
Canada Launches First Private Forest Owner Survey in Over 20 Years, Farmers Invited to Participate Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Private forests are a familiar part of many Canadian farms, providing firewood, timber, wildlife habitat, clean water, and environmental benefits that extend far beyond property lines. Yet despite their importance, very little current information exists about the people who own and manage... Read this article online