Dry Conditions Also Affecting Livestock Producers

May 14, 2018

Similar to grain farmers, livestock producers are also feeling the effects of the dry weather.

Manitoba Beef Producers General Manager Brian Lemon shared some of his concerns.

"Concern about how fast the grass is coming and how much nutrients there is out there and how much food there actually is on the pastures and how quick it's going to start growing," he said. "Anytime we're putting cattle out on pasture, if there isn't enough food out there, then we're looking at supplementing it somehow, so those are all feed costs that aren't typical and certainly don't help producers with their bottom line."

Lemon says a lack of rain means that hay production is going to be slow and late. He adds the increased risk of fire is also concerning.

Source : Steinbachonline

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.