Opinion: Farmers need a solo voice from the whole choir

Apr 25, 2023

Farmers are all in the same boat, just different parts of it. Grain producers may not think they have a close relationship with a dairy farm, a poultry operation, hog or cow-calf business or a feedlot, but there is a tie that binds them all.

A few weeks ago, producers from all agricultural sectors across Saskatchewan got together for a group chat about issues they face. High feed costs and short supplies of regional feedgrain have hurt livestock producers’ margins for several consecutive years, and those margins weren’t too good to begin with.

Cattle producers at that recent Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan summit reminded grain growers that without a thriving animal agriculture sector, about 35 percent of grain production would have to find a home in other markets. Byproducts from canola and soy crushing are important parts of crop value. Exporting them to U.S. markets isn’t particularly lucrative due to shipping costs and the relative strength of that country’s feed industry.

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Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.