Wow, here we are at the third of six editions already in 2018. I am barely getting used to writing or typing 2018 and I have begun initial planning for 2019 release dates.

After an extremely long winter, record breaking in my area, seeding is in full swing. Some guys are done and some yet still a ways to go. With wetter weather on the horizon the seed drills are going as fast as they can. Even with our insane winter in my area, I am once again reminded how fortunate most of us are. No major flooding, no fires, no earth quakes, no hurricanes, no lava flowing, no fighting (unless you call the pipeline a fight but that is more a political discussion and flexing of muscles).

Thanks to all those who took time to send your readership surveys, as in past years at first glance producers seem to still enjoy the format, style and over all presentation of Prairie Hog Country. Stay tuned for the complete results in the August release. I do apologize that I had some issues with our fax line and machine for a few days. I was able to get in touch with all those who had sent in compromised entries over those couple days and get them to resend so they were clear and readable. Technology is a fabulous tool until there is a problem.

Included within this edition is coverage from the Animal Nutrition Conference of Canada, HyLife’s New Expansion, Tim Hofer from Pine Hills handling of the recall, a unique opportunity to meet some farmers from Europe on a tour of Alberta farms, Brand awareness, and of course a look at Kona Hawk Farm which I visited a few months back. Plus much more.

Get your cameras ready as it is photo contest time. The annual photo contest and a chance to be in the 2019 Prairie Hog Country Calendar is here. Send me some of your favorite photos, you can send them via email or mail. More details are on page 41. Please again, as in previous year’s only send images that are a positive reflection of our wonderful industry.

As I reference more on page 46, my thoughts and prayers go out to Harry Siemens who recently lost his wife, Judith.

Look for Arlene, Brenda and I at our usual corner at Alberta Pork Congress. Please do stop in and say hi. It will be exciting to have the awards banquet at a new location this year, Holiday Inn and Suites on Gasoline Alley.

Speaking of new locations don’t forget Red Deer Swine Technology Workshop taking place October 24th has a new home, the Parkland Pavilion at Westerner Park. I have been told the draft agenda is complete with some fine tuning to come. Looks like an informative full day. Registration will be open soon.

More details are being released on the 2nd Annual Alberta Livestock Expo, they are adding a second day, a Carcass Competition plus a BBQ rib competition. Registration is now open for the show at albertalivestockexpo.com

With the onset of summer close around the corner, whether in the fields or highways or even walking to the barn, be safe out there.

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 August. •