Swine Industry Meets In Winnipeg

Feb 03, 2017

The province's hog industry gathered in Winnipeg this week for the annual Manitoba Swine Seminar.

One of the topics discussed was batch farrowing, which means grouping sows together to farrow in a tight period to create a large group of pigs the same age to help facilitate management afterwards.

Mario Lapierre, director of supply and sales for PIC Canada, said the pigs are easier to take care of if they are the same age when it comes to things like nutrition, rather than shooting for the average with a group that is at various stages of development.

He said while the concept is beneficial, it can create challenges for staff.

“It creates some very heavy loaded weeks for work, so you have to work with your staff to get some adjustments with hours,” he commented.

Source : Portageonline

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.