Industry Insights
Weekly Newsletter #27 – July 8, 2026
Stay informed with the latest news, advocacy updates, industry insights, and opportunities that matter to Alberta pork producers. We’re here to keep you connected, informed, and supported every step of the way.
Building Connections at the Calgary Stampede
Executive Director Darcy Fitzgerald and Board Chair Alastair Bratton were proud to be part of a busy day at the Calgary Stampede, connecting with government leaders and industry partners.
Along with Ian Moon of Olymel, Darcy and Alastair attended the Agri-business Reception hosted by Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Tara Sawyer. They had the opportunity to meet with the federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald, to thank him and his team for their leadership in securing the Canada–Japan African Swine Fever (ASF) Zoning Agreement. The reception, attended by Premier Danielle Smith, brought together industry representatives, business leaders, and international guests to celebrate the strength and innovation of Alberta’s agriculture and agri-food sector.
The day included a visit to the Taste of Stampede Food Stage, where they caught up with Chef Anna Olson who served as a judge for the Chef Pork Challenge alongside heritage breed producer Christina Stender of EH Farms. It was a special event showcasing the versatility of pork. In addition, Chef Olson demonstrated some of her favourite pork dishes in a separate cooking session.
Advocating for Alberta pork producers, building relationships and celebrating our industry are all part of Alberta Pork’s ongoing commitment to a strong and successful future.
Time Is Running Out!
The deadline is almost here! If you’re a Canadian Pork Excellence (CPE) certified producer, this is your opportunity to help shape an important decision for Alberta’s pork industry.
Alberta Pork is seeking producer feedback on the potential inclusion of a porcine by-product feed restriction within the CPE program. Your input will be reviewed by the Board of Directors before a decision is made—but only surveys received by July 31 will be considered.
Don’t miss your chance to have your voice heard. Complete and return your survey before the deadline to ensure your perspective is part of this important industry discussion.
Every eligible producer has one vote, and every response matters.
NRCB Requirements for Barn Updates
Updating Your Barn for 2029? Contact the NRCB First!
If you’re planning barn modifications to meet the 2029 loose-style open-pen sow housing requirements, be sure to contact the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) before starting any work. Changes involving in-barn pits, flooring systems, manure storage or collection liners, and concrete work may require NRCB approval and a permit before construction begins.
A quick call before you start can help prevent project delays, unexpected costs, or enforcement action. Visit the NRCB’s concrete liner guidelines or contact your local NRCB field office to determine if your project requires a permit.
Pork Research Hub Launches Tomorrow
Canadian pork research now has a new national home. The Pork Research Hub brings together trusted research, practical resources, and innovation stories in one searchable bilingual platform, making it easier than ever for producers, researchers, veterinarians, and industry partners to discover and apply Canadian swine research.
The platform features a searchable Resource Library containing research articles, factsheets, tools and technical resources, as well as Research in Action, a dedicated section highlighting the real-world impacts of Canadian pork research through stories, videos, podcasts and webinars.
The Pork Research Hub will be going live on Thursday, July 9, and will continue to expand with new resources and features over time, creating a stronger connection between research and the people who can put it into practice.
Producer Market Updates
The Alberta Pork Economics Dashboard provides timely market information to support informed business decisions. Access current pricing, market trends, feed cost updates, settlement data, and other key economic indicators affecting Alberta’s pork industry. Updated weekly, the dashboard brings important economic information together in one convenient place to help you monitor market conditions and plan with confidence.
