55% of all agriculture and food jobs tied to hog sector, new research finds

Sep 01, 2023

55% of all agriculture and food processing jobs in Manitoba are tied to the hog sector, according to an independent economic impact analysis released today by Manitoba Pork. Numbers compiled by Serecon also show that the provincial hog sector contributes 22,000 jobs across Manitoba in both urban and rural communities, as well as over $2.3 billion to the provincial GDP annually. Each year, Manitoba’s hog sector directly contributes $139 million to the provincial government in tax revenue, and another $87 million in municipal tax revenue.

“The contributions of Manitoba’s hog farming and pork processing sector to the provincial economy are substantial and show that our sector is an economic powerhouse for communities both large and small,” said Rick Préjet, chair of Manitoba Pork. “Our direct and indirect financial support allows both the provincial and municipal governments to fund key priorities, like health care, education, and infrastructure. The growth and success of urban and rural communities can be directly tied to hog farming and value-added processing.”

Manitoba’s hog sector continues to reinforce its commitment to the province. Over 40 new barn sites or expansions have been approved across the province since 2017, adding over $200 million in new private investment in primary agricultural production. Manitoba’s hog sector is also attracting new value-added investment, such as the recent $182 million expansion of the Maple Leaf Foods bacon facility in Winnipeg, last week’s announcement of the $52.8 million expansion at Winkler Meats, and the $35 million invested by the genetics company Topigs Norsvin on a new facility just outside of Plumas.

“Manitoba’s hog sector looks forward to continuing our legacy of growth and sustainability in the coming years, with the right conditions in which to expand local economies, build new barns, and continue to employ over 22,000 Manitobans,” added Préjet. “We will continue to work with our partners across the province, including both the provincial and municipal governments, on ensuring our sector supports our communities for decades to come.”

Source : Manitoba Pork

Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.