As farmers head into the fields to sow their seeds this month, seeds of change have already been planted across North America and the globe. The new US administration has taken an aggressive approach to alter international trade. In turn, Canadians have elected a new prime minister from a not so new political party. Here’s to hoping the leaders on both sides of the border can form a strong working relationship.
Once past seeding, summer will approach rapidly and with it comes heat. There is some great reading in this publication on heat stress as a reminder of best practices and solutions. We recommend you give it a read!
It was exciting to take part in the Montana Livestock Expo this past week. There is so much building going on in that area of the world and there was a nice buzz about. Great to connect with some great producers and to hear of their improvements and advancements. To exemplify that, here is a next generation hog farmer in a next generation isowean barn!
As always, we greatly appreciate your business and the faith you have put in WAGS to provide your nutrition suppor for your operation. We wish you a happy planting season and hope you enjoy the read!
Commodity Price Update
Tom Dowler and Darcy MacDonald
tomd@westernagsupply.com ; darcy@westernagsupply.com
We will start with the headline grain news. US seeding is ahead of schedule and it is looking like a massive corn crop is being planted – over 95 million acres and over a record of 15.6 billion bushels are being projected! The progress and seeding intentions along with great development of Brazil second corn crop has led to downward pressure on grain futures. In western Canada, we should see an increase in wheat acres at the expense of canola and barley.
Despite high expected grain acres, cash prices have stayed fairly firm of late with Alberta red wheat offers at $320-330 delivered. Barley has traded up about $5 the past month at $295-300 delivered Red Deer and $315-320 per MT Lethbridge. If wheat and barley stay at these levels, there is good potential for corn to work into Southern Alberta rations in short order at around $305 per MT delivered.
While small grains have stayed firm, there has been downward pressure on proteins as a result of trade issues with China and lack of direction on US renewable diesel policy. Soybean meal has traded at around $515 per MT delivered southern Alberta, canola meal at $300-310 per MT delivered central and southern Alberta. Fabas have also been quite affordable at $315-320 per MT delivered central Alberta and DDGS had started its seasonal decline at around $320 per MT delivered Lethbridge feedlot.
On the micro ingredients front we are starting to see a reprieve. Lysine and threonine have begun a steep price decline and we are starting to see weakness in vitamin markets that could come into play Q3.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further information!
PIG TALK Combating heat stress in pigs
Dr. Danilo Sotto, PhD
danilo@westernagsupply.com
Heat stress in pigs occurs when ambient temperatures are higher than the upper critical temperature limit (about 27C), and the pigs are unable to dissipate heat sufficiently to maintain their normal body temperature. When this happens, production efficiency is compromised because the nutrients available are diverted to heat dissipating measures (Mayorga et al., 2019). In the US, economic losses from heat stress in pig production has been estimated to cost $1B annually (Pollman, 2010).
Optimum and desired temperature limits
Table 1 shows the optimum temperature for every pig production stage and the desired temperature limits (upper and lower critical temperature limits). The thermoneutral zone is the range of temperature within these limits where the pigs live comfortably. It is dependent on the weight of the pigs, with heavier pigs having a lower optimum and thermoneutral zone than smaller pigs. This is because bigger pigs have a smaller body surface area exposed compared to smaller pigs, and the thicker layer of fat in bigger pigs impede heat dissipation.
Immediate signs of heat stress
Pigs maintain its body temperature by 1) redistributing blood from its core to the periphery to allow dissipation of body heat to the atmosphere (radiant heat loss) and by 2) evaporative heat loss (Cottrell et al., 2015). Pigs do not sweat, therefore, heat dissipation by evaporative cooling is mainly achieved by increased respiration (panting) and drooling. In pigs subjected to high temperatures (35˚C, relative humidity 30-35%), rectal temperature (estimate of core body temperature) increased from 38.5 to 40˚C after 4 hours of exposure. Similarly, respiration rate increased from 50 to 200 breaths per minute (Liu as cited by Cottrell et al., 2015).
Effect of heat stress on animal performance
Metabolic heat is produced when feed is digested and metabolized. Therefore, at elevated temperatures, the pig adapts by reducing its feed intake to reduce body heat production. This has negative consequences because nutrient (energy and amino acids) intake is also decreased. In addition, it has been reported that the maintenance requirement of the pigs increases by 7 to 25% during heat stress conditions due to heat dissipation measures (Baumgard and Rhoads, 2013). The reduced nutrient intake coupled with increased energy and amino acid requirements result in a drop in performance. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that heat stress may directly affect intestinal barrier integrity, nutrient digestion and transport, and metabolism (Pearce et al., 2013a, Pearce et al., 2013b). Overall, heat stress in pig production results in reduced feed intake, growth rates and increased mortality. In sows, reduced fertility, increased lactation weight loss, reduced milk yield and litter weight (as cited by Cotrell et al., 2015)
Piglets. Due to its small size and higher thermal zone of comfort, piglets are barely affected by heat stress. The effect of heat stress is indirect, i.e. reduced weaning weights due to reduced milk production of low-feed intake sows as a consequence of elevated temperature.
Growing pigs. Studies have shown that feed (energy) intake decreased by 10-30% as ambient temperature increased from 19 to 31˚C. It was estimated that feed intake can be decreased by up to 80 g/˚C/day (NRC, 2012). In studies conducted by Stahly and Cromwell (1979; 1981), the average daily gain was slower by 20% (from 800 g to 640 g per day) in pigs under heat stress (35˚C) compared to those in the thermoneutral environment (22˚C). Feed intake was lower by 16% (1.6 kg) in pigs under heat stress compared to pigs in the thermoneutral environment (1.9 kg) and feed conversion ratio increased (poorer) by 4.6%.
Gestation. These sows are typically limit fed so temperature above the UCT seldom affects energy intake. Liao and Veum (1994) demonstrated that exposure to 33˚C has no adverse effects. However, Wildt et al (1975) suggested that a 2-hour exposure to 40˚C between day 2 and 13 can cause 63% embryo mortality. Furthermore, it was suggested that piglets born to heat-stressed sows (d 85 of gestation to 21 days lactation; 28 to 30˚C; 10 hours per day) may have increased fatness at finishing (Heng et al., 2019).
Lactation. Quiniou and Noblet (1999) reported that daily feed intake was 54% lower; body weight loss was 52% higher, backfat thickness loss was 67% higher; and piglet growth rate was 23% slower in sows under heat stress conditions (29˚C) compared to those under thermoneutral environment (18˚C). (Mroz et al., 1995). Offering energy-dense, low-fibre feeds to meet lactation needs also exacerbates constipation, allowing bacterial toxins to be absorbed and increasing mastitis risk (Persson, 1996). In addition, large amounts of solid-dry feces can physically obstruct the birth canal, making farrowing more difficult (Cowart, 2007). Moderate fibre inclusion during the final days before farrowing can reduce constipation, stillbirths, and piglet death from low viability (Feyera et al., 2017). Finally, research indicates that increasing the daily feed allowance to around 3.7–4.3 kg/d for 3–7 d before farrowing decreases farrowing duration (Figure 1), birth interval, birth assistance (sleeving) and ultimately, the number of stillborn piglets.
Nutritional strategies to mitigate the negative effects of heat stress in pigs.
1) Increased fat and reduced protein and fiber. The metabolism of excess dietary protein and the fermentation of fiber in the large intestine of the pig produce higher metabolic heat compared to fat metabolism. Therefore, diets with higher fat, less fiber and with the correct amount of protein and amino acids would help alleviate the effects of heat stress (Patience et al, 2015). For example, Renaudeau et al (2003) demonstrated that during hot conditions (27˚C), lactating sows fed high-fiber diets (20% neutral detergent fiber,NDF) had higher body weight loss compared to sows fed a low-fiber diet (14% NDF) which was attributed to lower digestible energy intake. In a study by Kerr et al (2003), total heat production in growing pigs (23 kg) was reduced by lowering the dietary crude protein to 12% (from 16%) with synthetic amino acid supplementation (lys, met, thr) without detrimental effects on pig performance during heat stress conditions (33˚C). Spencer et al (2005) showed that feeding pigs (88 kg) diets with higher fat (8%) especially with high crude protein levels resulted in higher growth rates and better feed efficiency compared to pigs fed diets with lower fat (1%) during heat stressed conditions. For practical diets, added fat of 2 to 6% would suffice.
2) Anit-oxidant additives selenium (Se), vitamin C, vitamin E, and plant extracts (polyphenols). Heat stress is linked to oxidative stress which result in tissue damage. Oxidative stress occurs because of the imbalance between the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant capacity (Liu et al., 2015). Both vitamin E and Se prevent oxidative damage to biological membranes by neutralizing oxidants and free radicals. Vitamin E is a good scavenger of ROS and lipid peroxides, converting them to non-reactive forms while Se is an important component of glutathione peroxidase which catalyzes the reduction of peroxides (H2O2) into water, preventing oxidative damage (as cited by Cottrell et al., 2015). In growing pigs, feeding diets with high levels of vit E (200 IU/kg) and Se (100 ppm) for 14 days during heat stress (35˚C) protected the intestinal barrier integrity, improved antioxidant buffering and reduced oxidative damage (Liu et al., 2015). Polylphenols are very potent anti-oxidants. They are 6x more potent than Vit E50. Vitamin C may be produced by mammals however increased requirement during times of stress may require supplementation. Vitamin C may alleviate heat stress by reducing the stress-hormone cortisol and anti-diuretic hormone (Mavromichalis, 2010).
3) Betaine. It is a known organic osmolyte which regulate water movement and electrolyte balance, helping the pigs remain hydrated. There is evidence that supplementing diets with betaine may help alleviate some of the effects of heat stress however, most do not translate to performance improvement. For example, Gabler et al (2013) did not observe any improvements in ADG and ADFI of pigs supplemented with betaine (1.25 kg/tonne) compared to those fed without when exposed to mild heat stress (36˚C for 6 hours). However, they observed lower respiration rates and improved intestinal barrier function in the ileum of pigs fed diets with betaine (1.25 kg per tonne) compared to those fed diets without. In sows, supplementation of betaine (7.6 to 9 g/sow/day) from 3d post breeding to farrowing during summer months resulted in higher total born (+12%; Van Wettere et al., 2012) and total born alive +8%; van Wattere et al., 2013).
4) Chromium. Insulin is suspected to play a role in the response to heat stress in humans due to the observed increased mortalities in diabetic patients during heat waves (as cited by Cottrel et al., 2015). In growing pigs, the concentration of insulin in the blood has been shown to decrease after 6 hours of exposure to heat stress (Gable and Pearce, 2015). Therefore, compounds that improve insulin sensitivity may be beneficial during heat stress. Chromium is an important component of the protein chromodulin and augments the receptor binding of insulin potentiating its activity. Chromium supplementation in livestock typically results in reduced plasma cortisol concentration, especially when under heat stress. In finishing pigs, feeding summer diets supplemented with chromium picolinate at 400 ppb increased ADFI by 6% compared to those fed diets without, which was attributed to the reduction in cortisol. (Hung et al., 2014)
Conclusions
Heat stress results in huge economic losses in pig operations. Some nutritional strategies to mitigate the negative effects of heat stress include diet modification i.e. high fat, low protein, and fiber to reduce metabolic heat generated, addition of anti oxidants (Vit E, Vit. C, polyphenols and Se), betaine and chromium.
IT’S A MOO POINT The role of niacin in dairy cows
Dr. Saman Abeysekara, PhD
sama@westernagsupply.com
Once upon a time, scientists thought there was only one B vitamin. With expanding knowledge, it was
found that there are eight different types in the B vitamin group. Each of these B vitamins has special
function or specific role that helps to keep the body healthy and working properly. Niacin ( vitamin B3)
has a specific role in energy metabolism. Niacin is also essential for the health of nervous system
(brain), digestive system, and skin. Niacin is chemically a complex compound and a generic name for
nicotinic acid (pyridine-3-carboxylic acid), nicotinamide (niacinamide or pyridine-3-carboxamide), and
related derivatives, such as nicotinamide riboside (9). Niacin plays a vital role in energy metabolism,
growth performance, and overall animal health. Niacin enhances feed efficiency, helps animals adapt to
stress, and improves reproductive performance. Therefore, niacin is an essential nutrient used in animal
feed formulations (2-7).
Niacin has a great importance for metabolism of all animals because niacin is a part of the coenzymes
NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADP (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate) involved in energy metabolism (3-5).
Rumen: Apart from niacin in the diet, microbial niacin synthesis in the rumen is an important source for ruminants including dairy cows. However, the amount synthesized in the rumen seems to be greatly affected by the composition of the diet such as forage to grain ratio and fiber level. Many studies revealed a positive impact of a niacin supplementation on rumen protozoa (living rumen yeast). Niacin increases the number of protozoa (mainly Entodinium) in the rumen. According to research data, the amount of niacin reaching the duodenum is usually higher when niacin is added to the diet. However, not the whole quantity supplemented reaches the duodenum, indicating degradation or absorption before the duodenal cannula. Furthermore, supplementation of niacin did not always lead to a higher niacin concentration in blood. Effects on other blood parameters have been inconsistent, but might be more obvious when cows are in a tense metabolic situation, for example, ketosis or if high amounts are infused postruminally,
since ruminal degradation appears to be substantial. The same is valid for milk parameters. Niacin is also known to have some influence on nitrogen metabolism and rumen non-protein nitrogen level particularly ammonia level, sensing an increase in microbial protein production. There is a little evidence that niacin would affect the carbohydrate fermentation by influencing the rumen microbes in a positive way. It seems to be proportionality changing the volatile fatty acid (VFA) production in the rumen. Butyric acid is the VFA which is mainly affected with little influence on acetic acid and propionic acid. This change of butyrate by niacin would be associated with the niacin’s positive effect on rumen protozoa. The increase in some protozoa species leads to more butyrate production. Thereby microbial protein synthesis may be enhanced by the effect of niacin (2-7).
Blood: Niacin concentration in healthy cow’s blood was reported a minimum of 0.7 mg/ml, and a range of 0.5 to 2.0 mg/ml. In studies where blood niacin and milk parameters have been investigated, enhanced niacin concentrations in blood did not necessarily affect milk production or composition (4,5).
Body and udder: Research clearly showed that niacin depresses lipolysis in dairy cows. However, the results were inconsistent in some studies and the short half-life of niacin, which only transiently depresses lipolysis, may not result a detectable deletion of body lipids. The rebound of plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentration could be another reason for the inconsistent results regarding the slower lipid degradation by niacin. Niacin seemed to play a role in hydroxy-carboxylic acid receptor 2 (HCA2) mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) expression which is relatively higher in the mammary gland and liver. A number of studies reported the anti-inflammatory and positive effects of niacin through an HCA2 dependent mechanism. Niacin suppresses isoproterenol-induced lipolysis in bovine adipocytes (lipid cells) by reducing the intracellular level of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and inhibiting hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) via the hydroxycarboxylic acid-2 receptor (HCA2). Niacin increases adiponectin concentration in bovine adipocytes via HCA2. Niacin could reduce inflammation in bovine mammary epithelial cells, which was triggered by Staphylococcus aureus by suppressing the toll-like receptor (TLR)–NF-κB signalling pathway possibly via HCA2. Therefore, niacin is important for udder health and milk synthesis (1-7).
Natural sources: Animals typically gets niacin from the diet ingested, including both some forage and grain sources. However, ruminants are lucky to get niacin produced in their rumen by rumen microbiome. It was found that microbial niacin synthesis in the rumen was influenced by non-fibre carbohydrate (NFC) content in the diet.
Benefits: Niacin has been shown to optimize energy metabolism and reduce ketosis thereby increasing milk protein percentage in some experiments. It has been shown to increase a protozoan species (Entodinia) in the rumen that engulfs starch, potentially helping to protect the cow from potential risk of ruminal acidosis. Niacin would be helpful to maintain optimal body condition of animals, as niacin may improve fat metabolism and reduce excessive lipid deposition. Niacin helps keep the udder healthy. The calves born to the cows supplemented niacin were healthier. In calves, a low niacin diet triggered some deficiency signs like anorexia, diarrhea, dehydration and ataxia (difficult to walk) followed by death. Supplementation of 2.5 mg of niacin per liter of milk, offered ad libitum twice daily, prevented the deficiency (1-7).
Deficiency: Niacin deficiency can cause poor skin coat (pellagra in people). The deficiency can further cause problems in lipid metabolism, changes in blood lipid profiles, body fluid accumulation (edema), poor body condition, poor skin condition, poor udder health, poor reproduction and even some neurological symptoms (6,7).
Feeding recommendations: For fresh Holstein cows, usually fed about 32 grams per day. However, niacin content of the feed should be determined, as well as tryptophan, aspartate and quinolinate, since these are precursors of niacin during synthesis (6,9). If the diet contains good forage, good protein sources, and grain, niacin amounts required would be minimal.
Toxicity: There is a broad margin of safety for use of niacin. A few studies discussed over-dose of niacin and its adverse effects on cow performance and health. The toxic effects of niacin can occur only at levels far in excess of requirements. Niacin could be toxic at feeding rates greater than 350mg per kg body weight per day (or if fed more than 72 g per day to a 600 kg cow). The toxicity of nicotinamide is greater than nicotinic acid. So, the product composition of niacin is important to understand the toxic or tolerance level (4,5,6,9).
Take hone message: The production performance of dairy animals fed with niacin at 6 g per day may not be satisfactory, but supplementation of at least 12 g of niacin per cow per day can increase milk production by about 0.5 L. An optimistic return on asset in terms of milk yield increase is possible mainly with high producing early lactation cows. In addition, return of investment comes from improved udder health and optimal metabolic status of the cow. Therefore, supplementing the dairy cows a dose of 6-12 g of niacin will not only protect them from various metabolic diseases but will also defend them from severe heat stress; ultimately leading to improvement of their health and production potential (1-9).
Table 2. Naturally occurring niacin amounts in common feed ingredients
IT IS CHICKEN FEED Beating the heat: strategies for mitigating heat stress in poultry
Austin Coward, Ruben Garzon and Benjamin Londono austinc@westernagsupply.com; rubeng@westernagsupply.com; benjamin@westernagsupply.com
Cold and snow are now a distant memory in the minds of Northern animal producers. The chicken industry shifts quickly into spring production and summer heat is around the corner. One of the challenges during summer is heat stress as this affects performance and profitability, therefore, effective heat stress mitigation is critical for maintaining flock health and productivity. Barn managers should implement practical strategies that help keep birds cool and healthy even in coming heat waves.
Heat stress is a condition where animals struggle to maintain normal body temperature causing the birds metabolism to shift extra energy from body reserves & production to achieve temperature regulation and occurs when temperatures are high in the barn (normally, above 80°F/27°C). Hens that are under heat stress move less and consume less feed which lead to reduced available energy for egg production, growth, and immune response (Watsi et al., 2020; Lara & Rostagno, 2013). Nawab et al, found that heat stress suppresses immune responses, increasing susceptibility to diseases with 15-20% higher mortality in stressed flocks (Nawab et al., 2018). In broilers, heat stress lowers feed intake, leading to a reduction in body weight gain by 10-15% (Quinteiro-Filho et al., 2010). This costs producers substantially with worse feed conversion. Conditions are worsened with high humidity and poor ventilation. Fast growing broilers and high producing layers have very efficient and high metabolism which creates internal heat, making them more susceptible to heat stress. Heat stress is worse in overcrowded flocks with inadequate water access and lack of cooling systems. Reducing stocking density by 10-15% can reduce heat stress (Zu et al., 2020).
Birds under heat stress present the following signs
- Panting, wing-spreading, and lethargy.
- Reduced feed intake and weight loss.
- Pale combs and wattles, or droopy appearance.
- Increased mortality or sudden drops in egg production.
- Actionable advice: If symptoms appear, act quickly—check ventilation, water supply, and consider emergency cooling measures (e.g., sprinklers).
Environmental strategies for mitigating heat stress include misters, fans and evaporative cooling systems to improve air circulation and reduce barn temperatures, however, it needs to be well managed since higher humidity might lead to increased moisture in manure and in the air, causing higher apparent temperature in the animal. It’s a good practice to provide sufficient water and electrolytes especially during heat waves when birds will drink more. Adjust feeding practices and feed during cooler parts of the day to encourage intake.
Nutritionally there are many strategies that can assist the bird in battling heat stress:
a) High energy, nutrient- dense feeds might compensate for the reduction in feed consumption. This can be done by increasing dietary metabolizable energy by (5-10%) but using soybean oil or canola oil, and slightly elevating protein levels especially for broilers.
b) Supplement with Anti-Stress Nutrients – Vitamins C and Eand minerals like selenium reduce oxidative stress and boost immunity. Studies show vitamin C supplementation can improve egg production by 5-10% under heat stress (Sahin et al., 2003). Heat stress makes chickens produce harmful reactive oxygen species that damage cells and weaken the immune system. Vitamin C and E work like shields stopping these particles and helping chickens stay healthy and fight off diseases.
c) Provide electrolytes in water as heat stress causes excessive panting, leading to loss of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride etc.), and disrupting the acid – base balance. Electrolyte supplementation restores hydration and supports cellular function reducing dehydration. Some researchers have found that electrolyte supplementation increases water intake by 10-20% and reduces heat stress-related mortality by 5-10% in broilers and layers (Borges et al., 2004). In a study, broilers receiving electrolytes maintained better growth rates, with a 7% improvement in feed conversion ratio (FCR) under 32°C conditions (Borges et al., 2004). Be cautious because overuse can lead to mineral toxicity, causing diarrhea or kidney strain.
d) Incorporate Betaine as an Osmolyte- Betaine helps cells retain water under heat stress, improves gut integrity and enhances nutrient absorption, counteracting dehydration and stress-induced gut damage. Betaine at 1 g/kg of feed improved FCR by 5-8% in broilers at 33°C and reduced mortality by 5% in heat stressed flocks (Nawab et al., 2018). Layers supplemented with betaine showed a 6% increase in egg weight and a 4% improvement in shell quality (Nawab et al., 2018).
e) Supplement with Minerals (Selenium and Zinc) – These minerals bolster antioxidant defenses by supporting enzymes and reducing cell damage enhancing immune function. Selenium at 0.3 mg/kg increased antioxidant enzyme activity by 20% and reduced heat stress-induced mortality by 6% in broilers at 35°C (Sahin et al., 2009). Zinc supplementation at 50 mg/kg improved eggshell thickness by 5% and reduced bacterial infections by 10% in layers (Sahin et al., 2009). Caution: Excessive selenium (>0.5 mg kg) or zinc (>100 mg/kg) can be toxic, causing reduced growth or feather loss.
f) Add sodium bicarbonate to support acid-base balance and enhance performance. Heat stress induces panting where chickens expel carbon dioxide (CO2) and reduce blood bicarbonate (HCO3) levels which leads to respiratory alkalosis. Sodium Bicarbonate buffers blood pH restoring acid-base equilibrium (Teeter et al., 1985). Sodium bicarbonate provides sodium (Na⁺) and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) ions, which enhance water retention and cellular hydration, counteracting dehydration from heat stress (Borges et al., 2004. Eggshell thickness is one of the most important and crucial parameters to support during heat stress. Research have shown eggshell thickness increased by 4.5%, while cracked eggs were reduced by 6% when using sodium bicarbonate at 0.5% inclusion (Abbas Ghulam et al, 2022). Broilers supplemented with 0.5% sodium bicarbonate in feed showed a 6.2% increase in body weight gain compared to unsupplemented controls. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved by 5%, indicating better nutrient utilization. Blood pH was stabilized (7.35 vs. 7.45 in controls), reducing alkalosis (Teeter et al., 1985). Layers receiving 0.2% sodium bicarbonate in drinking water produced 8% more eggs than controls.
Key Takeaways
- Heat stress reduces growth, egg production, and immunity, negatively impacting profitability.
- Effective mitigation includes ventilation, hydration, adjusted feeding, and nutrient supplementation.
- Monitor flock behavior and environmental conditions to catch issues early.
- Over-mitigation can cause problems—balance interventions carefully.
- Proactive heat stress management keeps birds healthy and operations profitable.
Managing heat stress isn’t just about keeping chickens cool—it’s about ensuring they thrive under challenging conditions. By implementing these strategies, you’re not just protecting your flock; you’re safeguarding your bottom line. Stay vigilant, keep learning, and thanks for the time. I hope it helps during the next heat wave! Next time, we’ll dive into another critical topic to keep your operation running smoothly.
Figure 3. Effects of heat stress on behavioral, physiological, neuroendocrine, and production traits.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Congratulations to Wymark Colony Poultry for winning the Saskatchewan Egg Producer of the Year award for 2024! Amazing job, Paul!
Congratulations as well to Wymark Colony Hogs for winning 1st place Top Producer in the the paid weight – light category of the Hams Marketing Annual Awards 2024. Well done, Eddy and Ron! Kudos to our following partners who won awards at the Saskatachewan Livestock Expo!
Tompkins Colony – 1st place Egg Competition over 55 weeks
Sunset Colony – 1st place Egg Competition 19-35 weeks
Hodgeville Colony – 5th place Hog Carcass Competition
Congratulations to the WAGS partners who made it to the H@ms Marketing April Top 10 list for carcass quality of pigs going to either Thunder Creek or Olymel. Well done!
CORE AREA AND SORT
% in Core Area
5th Old Elm Farming Co. Ltd.
10th Summerland Colony Farming
Carcass Wt. Target
7th Sovereign Farming Co.
The YETI Cooler goes to Keho Lake Colony Dairy! Congratulations!
THE WAGS TEAM
David Borsboom – Sales Manager
Austin Coward – Sales Manager
Harry Korthuis – Sales Manager
Richard Kshyk – Sales Manager
Doug Richards – Sales Manager
Tony Rock – Sales Manager
Denni Van Dasselaar-Sales Manager
Gordon Van Dasselaar –Sales Manager
C Ann Cornell – Office Coordinator, Great Falls, Montana
Anne Dyck - Office Assistant, Lethbridge, Albertar
Hailey Moors – Office Manager, Lethbridge, Alberta
Darlene Thorburn – Office Coordinator, Swift Current, Saskatchewan
Bryce Rollet – Logistics Coordinator, Lethbridge, Alberta
Saman Abeysekara – Ruminant Nutritionist
Ruben Garzon – Poultry Nutritionist
Benjamin Londono – Poultry Nutritionist
Joaquin Sanchez – Swine Nutritionist
Danilo Sotto – Director of Nutrition
Darcy MacDonald – Business Manager, Saskatchewan and Manitoba
Tom Dowler – General Manage