Happy 2017 welcome to Prairie Hog Country’s 21st year, although it is January, when I am typing this, it sure doesn’t feel like it plus 7 is the forecast today. That was not the case when 658 of the industry joined together in Banff for the 46th Banff Pork Seminar. That week the temperatures were hovering in mid minus 20’s. Speaking of the BPS, kudos to the entire committee, Ashley and her team for putting on another top notch conference. As you will read in this issue the varied speakers covered a variety of topics. Sessions were well attended with the Keynote speakers filling the huge ballroom. As in other years there were just as many mini meetings going on in every tiny corner of the majestic Banff Springs Hotel, which the property has an abundance of. Banff Pork Seminar would not be complete without the evening ending at the Irish Pub. It amazes me every year how many people can fit into one pub.

In yesterday’s mail I got the most recent edition of Better Pork, another magazine that has decided to go national. I stand by the decision to remain focused on Western Canada. In conversations I have been having even as recent as two days ago many in the industry recognize and realize that Canada is big country. The family farms that are in Ontario are not the same as we have in Maple Leaf or HYlife farms in Manitoba, the Colonies in Southern Saskatchewan or even independents in Central Alberta like John and Wim. Prairie Hog Country is going to stay loyal to the same producers and Colonies in Western Canada that have supported us since the beginning. I still get calls weekly asking, “When is the next issue coming out?” “I can’t get enough and wish you would come out monthly.” Which are just two examples.

Back in December, which seems like so long ago, I participated in the second Prairie Livestock Expo. The one day show was jam packed with producers. Anticipation at the end of the day for the Pork Quality Competition, as Dennis announced the top place winners those who entered hung on his every word. Congratulations to James Hofer and his group from Starlight Colony.

Right after this issue is released I will once again be in Swift Current for Cramer Ag Expo. Kelly told me last week that the show is sold out with a waiting list. Like in Winnipeg, the end of the day brings much excitement with the winners announced in the Cramer Cup Series.

Prairie Hog Country will continue to participate with a booth at the trade shows, as I have said many, many times it feels so important to support both the industry and producers at a local level. Besides it is a great chance to catch up in person. See you in Swift Current, Red Deer and Brandon.

As always I am only a phone call or email away. Prairie Hog Country, Box 5536, Leduc, Alberta T9E 2A1, 780.986.0962, fax 780.980.9640 or email: hogcountry@shaw.ca

Talk to you in April