Annual South Western Ontario Pork Conference

Feb 14, 2017

Early registration is soon closing for conference attendance

Wednesday, Feb. 15 is your last chance to register early for the 2017 Annual South Western Ontario Pork Conference (SWOPC). The SWOPC will be held at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus on Feb. 22. The campus recently built a new swine teaching barn on site – tours of the facility will be one of the many highlights for conference attendees.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Start to Finish,” as industry representatives will present on all aspects of swine production, according to an event release.

The SWOPC will feature the following speakers and presentations:

- Alec Boekhoven a producer from Appin, Ont., will share his story regarding his swine operations. Boekhoven recently expanded his 300 sow farrow-to-finish operation to 600 sows.

- Dr. Laura Eastwood, provincial swine specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, will speak about creep feeding and the impact pellet size can have on piglet performance.

- Dr. Bill Moore, veterinarian from South West Ontario Veterinary Services, will speak about the latest news in the local swine industry.

- Dr. Billy Flowers, animal science and physiology professor at North Carolina State University, will finish the day with a presentation on reproductive issues in sows and management factors that can affect sow longevity.

These presentations will educate producers on current industry research, according to Marijn Fleuren, chair of the SWOPC planning committee.

“It’s all about keeping the producers informed and up-to-date,” she said in a release.

In addition to the presentations, producers will have the opportunity to explore a tradeshow showcasing some 30 swine businesses and industry experts. Producers can network with a wide array of industry representatives and learn about the latest technologies in swine production.

“We are excited to offer pork producers in southwestern Ontario an event which showcases the pork industry at the trade show and also educates by the excellent presentations we have arranged,” said Fleuren. “This conference has lots to offer and all pork producers should attend.”

Pre-registration for a discounted rate is open until Feb. 15, 2017. Late registration opens on Feb. 16 and is available through to and including the day of the conference.

To register and gain more information on the speakers, visit the SWOPC webpage.

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