Daryl Possberg grew up on a mixed hog and grain farm near Humboldt, Saskatchewan, where his early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong career in pork production. After university, he spent a decade with Big Sky Farms, gaining valuable insight into large-scale operations. In 2010, he moved to Wainwright, Alberta, to serve as GM of the Sunhaven group of farms. Then, in 2016, Daryl returned to Saskatchewan to join the family operation at Polar Pork Farms—a 12,000-sow facility specializing in isowean sales. He now lives in Saskatoon with his wife Angie and their seven children.
Since returning, Possberg has focused on strengthening core operations while navigating key decisions around loose sow housing—a shift that reflects industry trends and evolving expectations around animal welfare. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” Possberg says. “But moving to group housing means weighing animal care, staff training, facility layout, and long-term sustainability.”
His leadership style blends practical knowledge with a clear focus on continuous improvement. Whether adopting new housing systems, investing in people, or responding to market pressures, Possberg remains committed to building a resilient, responsible, and forward-looking pork operation in the heart of Saskatchewan.
Possberg said recently at the Manitoba Swine Seminar in Winnipeg, MB, that careful planning and a positive mindset are key to transitioning to loose sow housing. He outlines three important points for producers considering the move.
“First, have a solid plan,” he said. “Talk to other producers, take your time, and don’t rush into it.” Possberg stresses that preparation is critical to avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth transition.
“Second, be ready to manage the system you choose, whether ESF (electronic sow feeding) or pen gestation, each setup needs different management skills. Know what you’re getting into and be ready to adjust your approach.”
His third piece of advice: don’t be afraid of the change. “A lot of producers feared this shift when it first started like it was the end of the world,” he recalls. “But it’s not. Many have made the switch and found it better than expected.”
Possberg’s message is clear—group housing is manageable, and with the right plan, mindset, and management, it can be a positive step for both pigs and producers.
He recalls that when loose sow housing first appeared, many producers thought it would end the industry—some even believed everyone would quit. But now, he says the reality has been far more positive. “I’d say it’s even better,” he shares. “None of our team would go back.” While it’s a different way of managing animals, he believes sows are healthier and more fit. “God gave them four legs for a reason—they move around, are in better shape, and farrow better because of it.”
Possberg says the cost of transitioning to loose sow housing varies depending on the stage of the project. “The initial conversion cost us about $85 per sow. But going back now, tearing everything out and putting in new systems—it will be closer to $185 per sow.” He notes that while the upfront investment is significant, careful planning can help manage those costs.
He said it’s possible to convert to loose sow housing without stopping production, as long as there’s a solid plan in place. “You just have to make room,” he explains. That could mean moving bred sows into finishing spaces, adjusting gilt shipments, or sending culls out earlier to free up space. “There are ways to do it without hurting your bottom line,” he said.
Possberg also noted the transition’s short—and long-term benefits. Still, he added that even if a producer decides not to convert, there’s value in repurposing parts of the barn. “Some producers have removed gestation stalls and used that space for finishing instead,” he said, showing that flexibility can lead to success either way. •
— By Harry Siemens