Welcome to the last edition in 2020, and what a year it has been. We all hope and pray that 2021 will bring a more usual routine, without starting every morning with hearing new case numbers and how many new hospitalizations plus even worse, how many new deaths.
All those in the agricultural field are a resilient bunch, even more so in the hog sector due to struggles with pricing, the constant fear of diseases crossing into our borders, just to name a few. I admire your perseverance to push through while having one of the most, if not the most important job on the planet – providing food.
This fall looked a little different, some events cancelled while others with Zoom meetings and webinars becoming the new normal way to share information. Included in this edition is coverage from Manitoba Pork fall producer meeting, Western Hog Exchange AGM follow up and some Saskatchewan Pork Symposium.
As always it is key to keep people informed and again with the lack of in-person events a couple of unique opportunities came up in the past month. Both featuring Dr. Egan Brockhoff giving those listening in updates on ASF and how the Canadian Pork Council is continuously working on their action plan. One of these sessions was Raised with Care, hosted by Daryl McIntyre and the second was a noon hour huddle hosted by the Alberta Farm Writers association.
Looking ahead to January the virtual idea continues with Banff Pork Seminar January 5 & 7, see ad on page 4 and Pork Chops for more details on how to register.
As of press time the plan is to move ahead with the Cramer Expo February 11th in Swift Current. Doug and Kelly have been in contact with SASK Health and have put into plan to follow all guidelines. The final decision will be made January 15th if the show will still be able to be held, and registration is now open. Should the show be cancelled due to COVID-19 and SASK Health restrictions full refunds will be given to exhibitors and sponsors.
Manitoba Swine Seminar has been cancelled for 2021.
Looking ahead to 2021, I am so excited as it will mark the 25th year of publishing for Prairie Hog Country, although it started under a different name (Prairie Hog Report) it is an honour and a privilege to continue to bring you the latest hog news and information direct to producers six times a year. I am so grateful to my writing team as without them there would be no stories to read, thanks to Tim for all the great cartoons over the years, Dixie for editing and Amanda for website updates. However, without the support of my advertisers there would be no Prairie Hog Country, so thank you for your continued trust and participation in Prairie Hog Country.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, stay safe and stay healthy.
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:  
Talk to you in February. •