PED hits one of largest farms in U.S.

Sep 08, 2014

Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus has hit Circle Four Farms of Utah, one of the largest hog farms in North America.

It’s owned by Smithfield Foods Inc., now owned by Chinese WH Group, and the largest hog-raising and pork-packing company in the world.

The outbreak in Utah has been confirmed by the United States Department of Agriculture and state officials. Hog farmers in Utah were warned in May to take care to keep the virus from infecting their herds; all hog shows at local fairs were cancelled.

There have been about 5,500 outbreaks of PED virus in 30 states, wiping out about eight per cent of the nation’s newborn pigs and driving hog and pork prices to record highs in late July and early August.

Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.