As I am typing this it is a beautiful 22º outside, go combines go.
With a chance of flurries at the end of the week the old expression make hay when the sun shines seems fitting.
It has been a year since African Swine Fever, ASF, became a hot topic of discussion. A year later as Dr. Egan Brockhoff stated at numerous meetings, speaking engagements and even at an Alberta Pork Town Hall meeting, “it terrifies me,” and what it would do to our industry if entered Canada. We are reminded over and over again that Biosecurity is the best defense, and continuing to educate people whether it be city slickers or fellow producers. We still need to work together to keep this disease out.
Thinking about educating people there are some great opportunities in the upcoming months for all of us to learn. Red Deer Swine Technology Workshop Wednesday October 23rd, Saskatchewan Pork Industry Symposium November 12th & 13th, Banff Pork Seminar January 7th -9th and Manitoba Swine Seminar February 5th & 6th. Details and registration information on all of these future events are listed in Pork Chops. Each of these have solid agendas with some super speakers.
All of us in the pig sector are hoping the political dispute gets solved sooner rather than later. Not just us in pigs but the entire Canadian red meat sector is calling for government’s action.
In a few weeks I will be in Lethbridge for the 3rd Alberta Livestock Expo, with a sold out trade show there will be many interesting exhibitors onsite. Be sure to stop the booth to say hi and fill in your chance to win door prizes. New this year is a BBQ Pork Rib Competition, and my mouth is already watering thinking of tasting some of the ribs. Thursday afternoon will feature the Pork Quality Contest, who will win bragging rights this year? But the biggest winner will be charities receiving the meat and auction monies.
You still have time to submit photos for consideration for the 2020 Prairie Hog Country Calendar. Final deadline for photos is October 31st; please remember only pictures that are a positive reflection of our industry.
Thinking ahead to 2020, which will be the 24th year of publishing for Prairie Hog Country, I am extremely excited as we will continue to bring you all the latest hog news and information six times per year. For those who like to plan ahead the release dates are on page 40. Should your company want more information on or about Prairie Hog County or how to get your message direct to Western Canadian hog producers including all the Colonies just give me a call or bounce me an email.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I am reminded how blessed we are in Canada compared to many other places on the globe. Remember to spend the holiday with those who mean the most.
As always, I am only a phone call or email away. Prairie Hog Country, Box 5536, Leduc, Alberta T9E 2A1, 780.986.0962, fax 780.980.9640 or email: hogcountry@shaw.ca
Talk to you in December. •