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Slow Out of the Gate, Pork Industry Needs to Keep Demand Up

A relatively sideways year ahead in pork production with a need to keep the demand up, Scott Brown, livestock economist, associate extension professor and interim director of the Rural & Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at the University of Missouri, forecasts for 2023 pig production. 

In a recent “AgriTalk” conversation, Brown says, “We've seen kind of a struggle here out of the gate in 2023, and you look at those longer-term futures contracts across there, and to me, that kind of spell that out for all of 2023.” 

In terms of growth, Brown believes there could be a slight growth this year—on the productivity side—yet a disease outbreak, such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), could change the outlook a bit.

Pork Exports in 2023

This year, Brown says he’s “optimistic” about export demand for pork, yet knows there will not likely be a repeat of 2020 and 2021. 

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Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.