Ian Smith of Argyle, MB, one of the few mixed farmers still left a seasoned farmer with decades of experience, shares his tales of triumphs and challenges in the expansive canvas of the agricultural landscape. From the bustling business of custom killing and selling hogs to the intricate dance of the cattle industry, Ian paints a vivid picture of life on his farm.
Ian notes, before Christmas there was a significant upswing in the custom killing and selling of hogs. “People are buying sides of pork for Christmas gifts, and this trend has been gaining momentum over the past few years.”
In a world where practicality meets heartfelt generosity, the gift of food emerges as a timeless and essential choice. Ian’s reputation for providing quality pork has contributed to the growing demand, creating a favourable economic ripple on his farm.
Ian’s foray into the cattle industry has yielded impressive results. Four Shorthorn bulls, destined for a 2-year program, are a testament to his commitment to quality breeding. The recent sale of bull calves straight from the cow speaks to the robustness of his cattle enterprise.
Ian said, “I may not be a regular on the cattle show circuit, but attending events like the 50th Ag Ex Cattle Show in Brandon, MB, in October is invaluable for networking and gaining insights from fellow producers.”
Focusing on the Shorthorn breed was a strategic shift for the mix and diversified at Argyle, which previously had Limousine cattle. Seeking a change from the Limousines, Ian found the Shorthorns more docile, marking a deliberate step towards diversification. He highlights the importance of remaining open to different breeds and learning from other producers, a philosophy evident in his attendance at events like the Brandon Fall Cattle Show.
The agricultural journey has its share of challenges. Ian reflects on this year’s barley crop, acknowledging that poor germination and wind damage affected yields. However, his satisfaction lies in having enough barley feed for his hogs. The hay enterprise, a newcomer to his farm, encountered some setbacks with the second cut due to excessive rain. Nevertheless, Ian successfully sold the small square bales, particularly to horse owners, showcasing the profitability of diversifying products.
Beyond traditional livestock, Ian’s farm thrives on diversification. His laying hen business, yielding around 80 to 90 eggs daily, has become a “gravy train” for him. Ian extends the benefits of his egg sales to the community, delivering fresh eggs to a local senior’s home.

Picture this: about a hundred laying hens bustling around, collectively churning out a bounty of 80 to 90 fresh eggs daily. Ian’s commitment to quality on his farm extends to the community, particularly the seniors at Lions Manor, a local senior’s home. Ian’s mother resides there, adding a personal touch to this agricultural connection. Diversification emerges as a recurring theme, providing financial resilience and a sense of joy in contributing to the community.
Ian doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the mental stress accompanying financial difficulties, particularly during challenging seasons like the drought a few years ago. His candid reflection emphasizes the importance of mental well-being in the farming community. Ian’s perspective extends beyond financial advice, delving into the interconnected nature of mental and financial health.
The conversation turns as Ian introduces Manny, a Filipino nutritionist he met at a banquet. Intrigued by Ian’s pig-raising methods, Manny visited the farm and offered valuable insights. Ian encouraged further exploration of Manny’s perspective, highlighting the nutritionist’s reputable background with various companies in the industry.
In conclusion, Ian’s agricultural journey unfolds as a tapestry woven with diverse experiences, each contributing to his farm’s resilience and success. From the festive hum of hog sales, to the quiet satisfaction of delivering fresh eggs to seniors, Ian’s story embodies the spirit of adaptability and the art of thriving in the ever-changing world of agriculture. It is also a testament to the ambitions of a farmer who thrives on diversification and a return to the olden days of being a contented mixed farmer and serving his community. •
— By Harry Siemens