Canada Increases Defence Against African Swine Disease

Aug 07, 2023

The Government of Canada is giving $944,340 to Manitoba's Pork Group. This large amount of money is set aside for the African Swine Disease Industry Ready Program. Canada's pork industry is a big part of the nation's exports, valued at $4.8 billion in 2022.

The goal is to be prepared for the possible arrival of the dangerous African Swine Fever (ASF) in Canada.

"We will keep working hard to protect the pork industry and make sure it stays strong if an outbreak happens," says Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Food.

"African Swine disease is a huge risk to our province's Swine business," warns Rick Préjet, Chair of Manitoba Pork.

As many farmers will know, this disease is a catching and deadly virus that attacks both farm and wild hogs. Even though it's deadly to pigs, it doesn't harm people.

It's been spreading since 2018, moving through Asia and Europe, recently showing up in the Caribbean. So far, Canada and the U.S. have stayed free from it.

Manitoba's Pork Group will use the money to start several projects, including controlling wild hog numbers, making a combined response plan focusing on animal care and disease control.. It will also push for better health safety measures and increase awareness of biosecurity protocols with farmers – large and small.

Video: Selling Rams & Helping New Farmers Begin

It’s shipping day again at Ewetopia Farms as we sell another Suffolk yearling ram! In today’s episode, we load one of our Suffolk rams onto the trailer as he heads off to his new farm to sire the next generation of lambs.

This particular customer has been buying our rams for over eight years, trusting Ewetopia genetics for their gentle temperaments, strong builds, and proven performance. Back home, we get busy looking after the flock that’s staying behind. With the weather turning wet and chilly, it’s time to put down fresh, clean bedding to keep everyone cozy and comfortable for the season ahead. Later, we welcome a wonderful new family who’s just starting out in sheep farming!

They’ve chosen some of our Suffolk ewe lambs to begin their flock — and we couldn’t be happier to help them take their first steps into raising sheep. Stay tuned for a follow-up episode when we help deliver and settle their new flock at their farm.