U.S. sow gestation stalls under attack Sunday, April 1, 2012 The pressure to end the use of dry sow stalls is growing south of the border, and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is the vise. In early February, the Austin Daily Herald in Minnesota reported that Jeff Ettinge, chief executive of Hormel Foods, announced at its annual general meeting plans to end use of sow gestation crates on its Arizona farms by next year and in Colorado and Wyoming by 2017. Ettinge was responding to a question from a member of the HSUS, which is a shareholder.At about the same time, the HSUS announced it was going after Wal-Mart suppliers Seaboard Foods and Prestige Farms. HSUS subsequently complained to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Federal Trade Commission that Seaboard and Prestige spread "grossly false and misleading statements" about its animal welfare practices."McDonald's Corporation announced it will require its U.S. pork suppliers to outline their plans to phase out use of sow gestation stalls by May. "McDonald's wants to see the end of sow confinement in gestation stalls in our supply chain," said a joint press release with HSUS.In addition, Bon Appetit Management, a nationwide food service operator, announced it would phase out pork products from stall-housed sows by 2015. BP Behind the Lines - April 2012 Pakistan capital inundated with wild boars
Livestock Safety Depends on Clean Water Tankers Monday, March 30, 2026 Agricultural experts warn that using inappropriate tankers for hauling water during emergencies can threaten livestock health and survival. During events such as wildfires, floods, and extreme weather, animals often lose access to clean drinking water, forcing farmers to rely on any... Read this article online
Canada’s Farm Show 2026 Drives Global Ag Innovation Monday, March 30, 2026 Canada’s Farm Show 2026, held in Regina, Saskatchewan,earlier in March,successfully brought together farmers, industry leaders, and exhibitors from across Canada and several international markets. The three-day event focused on innovation, collaboration, and growth in the agriculture... Read this article online
Will the USDA Acreage/Stocks Report provide a Market Surprise? Monday, March 30, 2026 On the weekly with Farms.com Risk Management Chief Commodity Strategist Moe Agostino, he shared that the markets moved in unexpected ways during the week of March 23 to 27, as traders closely monitored the upcoming USDA planting intentions and grain stocks reports for potential surprises.... Read this article online
Avi Lewis wins federal NDP leadership Monday, March 30, 2026 The federal New Democratic Party (NDP) has a new leader after seven months of campaigning. Documentary filmmaker and former journalist Avi Lewis won 56 per cent of party support on the first ballot at the NDP’s national convention in Winnipeg, Man. “Canada, mark your calendar. The NDP... Read this article online
Broadband Access is a Defining Issue for Rural Canada’s Future Monday, March 30, 2026 Broadband connectivity took centre stage during the on March 26, as speakers emphasized that reliable, high-speed internet is now foundational to rural economic growth, community well-being, and Canada’s broader ambitions in technology and resource development. The Coalition’s latest... Read this article online