Positive signs for the status of avian influenza in Canada

Jun 20, 2023

One thing we can be sure of is that things will evolve and change. Since 2021 Canadians have been battling the emergence of avian influenza H5N1. This spring signs are hopeful as the number of infections have declined across the country for both commercial and non-commercial poultry owners. Some provinces have reported no infections. This has CFIA hopeful that summer will be less eventful.

Vigilance will be ramped up for wild bird migration this fall. Fingers-crossed as it has been a stressful few years for poultry owners, on top of an already stressful time. In the meantime, officials express concern for poultry owners who may be experiencing biosecurity fatigue.

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Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.