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
Canada AI Minister Visits EMILI Innovation Farms Friday, July 17, 2026 Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, recently visited EMILI’s Innovation Farms in Manitoba to learn more about agricultural technology and artificial intelligence projects being tested in real-world farm conditions. The visit gave the minister... Read this article online
FCC Backs Farmer Mental Health Network Friday, July 17, 2026 Farm Credit Canada (FCC) has renewed its support for a national mental health initiative that serves Canada's farming community. The organization has committed $1.8 million over the next three years to help continue and expand services offered through the National Farmer Wellness Network... Read this article online
Indian Head and Scott Research Farms to Survive Friday, July 17, 2026 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and the Government of Saskatchewan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore options for maintaining agricultural activities at the Indian Head and Scott Research Farms while the federal government proceeds with plans to dispose of... Read this article online
Todd Klink Earns Top 4 H Canada Honor Friday, July 17, 2026 Todd Klinkhas been named the recipient of the 2026 4-H Canada Honorary Member Award, the highest recognition presented by the organization. The award celebrates his many years of leadership, volunteer service, and dedication to supporting youth development and agriculture across Canada. A... Read this article online
Alberta Facility Expands Black Soldier Fly Production Friday, July 17, 2026 FairGene, a partnership between Fairville Farming Co. andNRGeneCanada, has launched a dedicated black soldier fly (BSF) egg production facility in Bassano, Alberta. The facility has already started producing BSF eggs and aims to provide insect producers around the world with a dependable... Read this article online