August 15, 2006

Canada's swine producers advised on changes to feed rations
 

Canada's Manitoba Pork Council is encouraging swine producers to focus on energy to control feed costs, which are expected to climb this winter.

Figures released by the Canadian Wheat Board indicate that barley production in Western Canada and the volume of grain available for feed is expected to be substantially lower this year.

Manitoba Pork Council swine production specialist and CQA coordinator Miles Beaudin recommends supplementing diets with alternative sources of energy, such as higher energy grains like corn.

Miles Beaudin of the Manitoba Pork Council said producers can use tallow, vegetable oils or they could source it directly from corn.

However, with ethanol plants being developed, corn prices would be going up as well. Fortunately, farmers would be able to secure corn supplies at more stable prices through futures, Beaudlin said. He advised farmers to buy futures with the longest term they can find to secure prices.