Good day, yesterday, from when I am penning this I was in Calgary for the Alberta Pork AGM – the theme of the day was collaboration, it is a simple word but oh so very important. To work together to promote and strengthen the hog sector, from producers to processors to retailers to Federal & Provincial hog organizations – to all industry partners. We all benefit with a strong, competitive and popular hog industry.
I am thrilled to say that 2026 will be the 30th – yes 30th year for Prairie Hog Country, and I am honoured to be able to keep bringing you the latest hog news and information next year and for years to come.
This edition is jam packed with follow up coverage from numerous of the fall events and meetings, many excellent opportunities to learn, share ideas even refresh some often over looked everyday handling and barn procedures. Coverage included from Saskatchewan Pork Symposium, Red Deer Swine Technology Workshop, Manitoba Pork Fall producer meetings plus a brief Alberta Pork AGM (due to editorial deadline). Also included in this issue is two different views on the Prop 12 debate, plus much much more.
At the recent Alberta Livestock Expo charity was the biggest winner of the day, a astonishing $30,200. was raised for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Plus over 6000lbs of pork was donated to local food banks and soup kitchens. The hog sector once again shows its tremendous support and ways to give back to community.
Recently, I was searching through old photo files for a certain picture and I stumbled across some treasure from many many years ago. Back when Farm Fair in Edmonton hosted a live hog show. It was an opportunity for kids to show their techniques in the pen, followed up by a costume competition. You might recognize one of the judges, Jurgen Preugschas. Some of the pigs were supplied by Hillview Acres, Gerald Maschmeyer and his late farther Doug. See page 48.

Banff Pork Seminar is right around the corner, I am happy to be able to provide 800 copies of this issue to be included in every attendee bag. It is a great opportunity to share PHC with many additional readers, over and above our mail list. For those of you reading this at or during Banff Pork Seminar, welcome – should you have any questions/comments/suggestions please do reach out. Plus if anyone in your farm or organization would like to advertise within Prairie Hog County we are your direct connection to the Western Canadian hog sector, released six times per year. See page 49 for 2026 release dates.
On behalf of myself, the writing team, copy & web editor and cartoonist we wish you a very Merry CHRISTmas and the very best in the New Year.
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 February of 2026. •