Karolina Steinerova, Producer Services Manager with the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board, says Saskatchewan pork producers are now better prepared to deal with a potential foreign animal disease outbreak or emergency requiring mass euthanasia and disposal.
“We released a mass euthanasia and disposal producer’s guide and hosted both in-person and online workshops,” said Steinerova. “We also offered financial help for developing site-specific on-farm emergency response plans.”
She emphasizes why having such a plan matters. “We can think of an emergency response plan as a step-by-step guide we prepare in advance, when we’re calm and able to set priorities. Emergencies like disease outbreaks are emotionally demanding, and without a plan, we may not act to the best of our ability. It takes more effort up front, but it makes life easier when we need to respond quickly and effectively.”
The most common trigger for these plans is a disease outbreak.
“African Swine Fever is the biggest threat to our industry,” Steinerova said. “Canada is still free of it, but even one case would immediately impact producers and markets. Emergency plans are key to controlling the disease at the site level and protecting the broader swine sector.”
The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board created a workbook to guide producers through planning. Steinerova explains how the workbook is structured.
“We divided the workbook into two parts—euthanasia and disposal,” she said. “In the euthanasia section, producers choose approved methods that ensure humane death and human safety. They select a primary and a secondary method, depending on the tools and equipment they already have on-site, and where to get more if needed.”
Steinerova says producers must also consider personnel. “They need to think about whether they have enough trained staff to carry out mass euthanasia safely and efficiently. That’s crucial to maintain both animal welfare and worker safety.”
The disposal side of the plan depends on location and bio-security. “For deadstock disposal, it’s essential to consider where the producer locates the pig facility and what bio-security measures are in place. Safe disposal helps contain disease and protect neighbouring farms.”
Between January and March 2025, producers had the opportunity to submit their plans. Steinerova reports strong interest.
“We received 68 site-specific plans by the end of March,” she said. “That represents about 50 percent of all sites in the province. We’re pleased with that, especially considering the program’s short duration. Producers are serious about preparedness, animal welfare, and industry resilience.”
She adds that the benefits of the program go beyond just emergency planning.
“This wasn’t only about crisis response,” she said. “The program encouraged producers to reflect on their day-to-day euthanasia practices. For some, it improved animal handling, workflow, or bio-security protocols.”
The program also helped Sask Pork gather valuable insights. “As a provincial organization, we now have a clearer picture of where help may be needed in a real emergency. That allows us to localize resources and support the affected areas more effectively.”
Steinerova invites those looking to get involved or learn more to connect. “Anyone interested can email me at karolina@saskpork.com or call 306-343-3502.” •
— By Harry Siemens