21 The Trusted Source for Canada’s Pork Producers Better Pork | June 2024 new suggestions and ways of doing things. But in all of this, the health and welfare of the pigs can never be compromised. What are the biggest farming challenges you face? How have you addressed them? The volatility of the hog market would be a big one. We try and counter this by forward contracting our pigs and watching our input costs. We produce all our own feed, and when we do buy any feed ingredients, we try and time it so we get the best possible price. Another challenge is trying to ensure that all members of the pork value chain share equally in the value of the pig. Producers often seem to get the short end of the stick, and working towards a solution for that is something near and dear to my heart. What are the most exciting opportunities in the industry? The advancements in research that help us to better understand pigs and ensure animal welfare. Technologies like automatic sow feeding and breakthroughs in genetic potential are game changers for the industry. In terms of opportunities away from the farm, I joined the Alberta Pork board of directors last year and am really enjoying it. The other board members and staff have been very helpful, I’m learning quite a bit, and I get a chance to meet interesting, smart people out there while helping to move the industry forward in a positive way. How do you define success? Being able to lay my head on the pillow at night knowing I did the best I could. Being at peace with the person I am and knowing that I treated people with respect. My family is a great source of pride and something I never take for granted. Watching my kids grow up and become good, happy people is rewarding. If you weren’t a farmer, what do you think you’d do for a living? I have no idea. Farming is the only thing I have ever done. How do you support your mental health during challenging times? Church, and being with my family. Being born and raised on a Hutterite Colony makes for a strong support system. What was your most memorable crop/production year? Financially, it was 2014 when PED hit. It was a detriment for many producers when their herds contracted the virus, but for those farms that remained PED-free, it was a very profitable year. From a production standpoint, our best year was 2023 after we got that awful flu under control, made some management changes, and achieved better gilt selection. The big things matter, but so do the INSIDE THE HELIX A Podcast from DNA Genetics. When economic times are tough, you need a sow that consistently outperforms expectations. The DNA Line 241 will save you money with industry-leading feed conversion. Whether through feed intake or feed conversion in gestation, our maternal line is the solution you’re looking for. Especially during times where every dollar matters. Visit with an account representative to learn how you can achieve the biggest bang for your buck. FEED CONVERSION MATTERS. WHEN TIMES ARE TIGHT, dnaswinegenetics.com UP CLOSE
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