New hog grading system brings higher returns Monday, November 4, 2013 by MATT MCINTOSHProducers will earn one per cent more for their hogs under a new grading system, says a recent Ontario Pork press release.Yesterday, Ontario Pork confirmed the introduction of a new grading grid that gives farmers more flexibility when it comes to shipping hogs."Under the old grid, producers who ship hogs with an optimal fat and muscle content receive a premium," says Patrick O'Neil, division manager for Ontario Pork's marketing branch. "The new grid expands that optimal weight range, meaning producers have the option of shipping heavier hogs."For example, the narrow optimal range under the previous system ran between 85 and 100 kilograms carcass weight. Now, that range goes from 85 to 105 kilograms."We found that, of all the pigs being shipped, there is a one per cent increase in returns," says O'Neil.The new grading grid works within Ontario Pork's pool and pool plus marketing programs.Under pool plus, farmers contract with and ship their hogs to a variety of processing plants, then receive an average price determined by Ontario Pork.The pool program is the same, but does not involve signing a contract.O'Neil says farmers can go to oink.ca, or call Ontario Pork to see how the grid will specifically affect them. BF Hog service fee reduced Food bank award recognizes pork program organizers
Ontario Grows More Than Three-Quarters of Canada’s Pumpkins Friday, August 7, 2026 While pumpkins are often associated with autumn festivals and Halloween displays, Canadian farmers know the crop is also a significant specialty commodity with growing economic importance. When it comes to pumpkin production, one province stands well above the rest. Ontario accounts... Read this article online
Canola Growers Urged to Scout Blackleg Thursday, August 6, 2026 Blackleg is one of the most important diseases affecting canola production. It can reduce crop yield, lower quality, increase lodging, and affect overall farm profitability. Effective management is important formaintaininghealthy crops and producing high-quality canola. Keepit Cleanis... Read this article online
FMC Launches New Harvest Dry Down Herbicide Thursday, August 6, 2026 FMC Canada has announced the registration ofPrecisionPac®FH 20 herbicide, a new crop protection product designed to support growers during the harvest season. The product is intended to help prepare canola and other registered crops for a smoother and more efficient harvest. The... Read this article online
UFA Expands Crop Services with Ponoka Acquisition Thursday, August 6, 2026 UFA has strengthened its position in the agricultural sector through the acquisition of Ponoka Fertilizer, a well-established crop input and agronomy business serving producers in Central Alberta. The move brings together two organizations that share a strong commitment to supporting farmers... Read this article online
Bayer’s Battle of the Bushels Wednesday, August 5, 2026 A new ag competition is pitting farmers against one another. Bayer’s Battle of the Bushels sees 15 selected canola growers (14 from Saskatchewan and one from Alberta) seed a 40-acre plot with either DK401TL or DK400TL, plus a BUTEO start seed treatment. Bayer reps visit the... Read this article online