SwineCast Update

The series of presentations now online at SwineCast.com/ConferenceConnection will be of value for your organization. From the the Minnesota Pork Congress facility management presentation to Eldon McAfee's presentation on Iowa Environmental Issues (which includes a great update on national and international concerns), these are a great crop of management and production information. Please make use of these resources.

We have had many inquiries in the past on presentations available. There are several years of presentations and conversations in the SwineCast.com archive. Just enter the topic of interest in the search box on the SwineCast home page and see what comes up. Or use the Browse Topics library to get started.

BTW - our purpose is to extended the sharing of industry information. If your organization or business is interested in joining us in this endeavor, drop me a line at NArthur@SwineCast.com.

SwineCast® Conversations

1. Audio: Feed Efficiency Factors And Lower Costs - Roger Campbell from Pork CRC talks about maximizing feed efficiency, phase feeding, and factors affecting feed costs [audio].
2. Video: Market Outlook - Dr. Steve Meyer, during his Minnesota Pork Congress presentation, stated "Total feed supply is going down. This means we either get more efficient or we get smaller." His presentation also covers several bright spots in 2011, including trade, and he projects out into 2012 the things to watch out for: exports, U.S. Demand, feed prices, hog/pork supplies, and packing capacity [video].
3. Audio: Pay Attention To Balance Sheets, Not Market Noise - Paul DeBriyn, President and CEO of AgStar Financial, says strong balance sheet and a good business plan opens lender doors [audio].
4. Video: Iowa Environmental Issues - Eldon McAfee, Beving Swanson & Forrest, provide great details on Iowa Regulations & nuisance cases. From the 2012 Iowa Pork Congress, January 24 - 26, Des Moines, IA, USA. from the 2012 Iowa Pork Congress, January 24 - 26, Des Moines, IA, USA [video]
5. I Studied Agriculture & I Have A Job - Terence Loose, a writer for Yahoo!, in his post College Majors That Are Useless, suggested agriculture degrees were worthless and did a disservice to those people in agriculture who work very hard to make food available to everyone. In response, a group of people organized on Facebook with I Studied Agriculture & I Have A Job to demonstrate that agriculture is important, there are very good jobs in agriculture, and people are happy to be in ag. Additionally, many others responded by blogging and participating on the recent AgChat conversation on ag jobs and careers.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Back in the 80's, some of Mike Brumm's research at the University of Nebraska indicated room temperatures could be lowered overnight in the nursery without affecting health or efficiency. Dr. Lee Johnston, University of Minnesota, has picked up that baton and carries it with updated information but similar results. Lowering that furnace kick-on setting fifteen degrees can drop your fuel bill around 20% [audio].

At The Meeting returns to SwineCast with a deep dive on bio-security [audio]. The Morrison Group reviews practices and procedures that lessen your potential for a profit-numbing break.

Conversations from the Iowa Pork Congress highlights that new construction is underway in every quadrant of the state. Dr. Steve Meyer says his larger concern at the moment is shackle space, not floor space. And the issue may grow in 2013.

SwineCast® Conversations

1. Audio: Deep Dives On Biosecurity - Deep dive on swine farm biosecurity, specifically related to PRRSv. This panel conversation reviews some of the presentations from the 2011 Leman Conference and the 2011 International PRRS Symposium.
2. Audio: Significant Energy Savings from Lowering Overnight Nursery Temperatures - Dr. Lee Johnston, University of Minnesota, presented research on dropping nighttime temperatures in the nursery and lowering fuel costs some 20%.
3. Video: PRRS Education Materials - PRRS Education Materials - Dr. Laura Batista, Boehringer Ingelheim, shares what tools and educational materials are available to help combat PRRSv. From the 2011 International PRRS Symposium, December 2 - 3, 2011, Chicago, IL, USA.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host

1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

SwineCast will be joining you at the MN Pork Congress (St. Paul, Jan 18-19) and the Iowa Pork Congress (Des Moines, Jan 25-26).  In addition we'll be sharing Farmscape.ca coverage of the Banff Swine Seminar, courtesy good friend Bruce Cochrane.  Be sure to check back regularly, or better yet set up your free downloads via iTunes to carry SwineCast with you [iTunes link].

Be sure to hear the conversation with Chris Novak, CEO of the National Pork Board, as we discuss strategic communication efforts currently underway to increase consumption in the U.S.  Good stuff, and a link to the McRib Tracker website! Like what you read here?
Share this with others: *|SHARE:Twitter,LinkedIn,Facebook|* SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Is "Pork. Be Inspired" Inspiring Consumers? - National Pork Board CEO Chris Novak discusses the "Pork.  Be Inspired." campaign along with other strategic marketing efforts.
• Audio: How Does Pork Translational Research Work? - Transitioning information from research to production is a planned process which considers willingness or ability of the industry to assimilate the information, potential impact of the research (PRRS eradication, genomics, etc.) and a close relationship with early adopters.  Canada's Prairie Swine Centre's Ken Engle discusses the process and projects underway throughout the Canadian industry.
• Video: What Are Hog Densities in the US? - Dr. Enrique Mondaca provides PRRS ARC&E updates from the 2011 International PRRS Symposium, focusing on the hog densities at the state and county level in the US.

Last several SwineCast Updates
*|LIST:RECENT3|* Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Like what you read here?
Share this with others: *|SHARE:Twitter,LinkedIn,Facebook|* Dr. John Dekkers, Iowa State University, offered insights on the progress of genetics research affecting efficiency. The pigs take another day or two to hit market weight, but the data shows less feed per pound of gain and potentially better response to health challenges.

We've put up several new topical conversations in the last few weeks including corporate sustainability [audio], weather insurance [audio], and PRRS impact on rate of gain [audio]. This is a reminder that every SwineCast program ever published is online and searchable.

Reminder that the Minnesota Pork Congress is January 18-19, in Minneapolis, MN. Of note: The pre-congress ventilation seminar on January 17, the keynote January 18 featuring Haydn Shaw on Leading Across Generations, and the Pork Congress trade show January 18 and 19.

Then the 2012 Iowa Pork Congress, January 25-26, in Des Moines, Iowa offers insight and observations on the swine production, economics, and legislative activities. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with the presentation experts and discover more on the trade show floor. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: How Genetics Research Affects Efficiency And Health? - Racehorses and workhorses... two different animals. But research at Iowa State is uncovering surprising additional benefits in the animals selected for most efficient use of calories. Dr. Jack Dekkers offers an update on this research via the 2011 International Conference On Feed Efficiency In Swine.
• Audio: Does PRRS Affect Overall Feed Efficiency? - Animal health is a key factor in maximizing feed efficiency at the farm level.  Dr. Steve Dritz shares his thoughts at the 2011 International Conference on Feed Efficiency in Swine.
• Seven steps to extending your agriculture conference: - Conferences may only occur once a year but the conversations and presentations are still good after the event is over. Here are seven actions you can take to extend your conference throughout the year.
• Video: Antibiotic? What, So What, Now What? - Dr. Tom Shryock, Senior Research Advisor of Microbiology, Elanco Animal Health, highlights what initiatives are in development to ensure public health and food safety, with respect to antibiotic use in food animals.
• Video: Antimicrobial Resistance in Human Health? - Dr. Robert Flamm, Director of Antimicrobial Development, JMI Laboratories, from the 2011 Antibiotic Use In Food Animals conference, October 26-27, 2011, Chicago, IL, USA.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.
Happy Holidays!

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Like what you read here? Share this with others: *|SHARE:Twitter,LinkedIn,Facebook|*

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal highlighted the USDA's inability to accurately assess crop conditions and harvest, which adds greatly to price volatility and impacting feed availability. NPPC Board Member Randy Spronk speaks to the issue in a recent conversation in Kansas City.



Economist Steve Meyers, a speaker at the Midwest Pork Conference, also discussed feed grains in the larger picture. BTW, a great turn out at the Indiana-based conference. A lot of interest, or positive outlook, or 2 days of rain? What do you think?  Let us know at Feedback@SwineCast.com.

How is your swine conference connection developing? Conferences are more than just the event location, presenters, food, and attendees. Each successive event you plan is building a feeling, a movement, possibly even a brand.

To keep that event in the hearts and minds of all involved requires a series of actions that share the experience, information, and value of the conference. Learn more about how Truffle Media Networks can help you with your Conference Connections.

SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: How Significant Is The 2011 Drought To 2012 Feed Supplies? - Dr. Steve Meyers aims to provide a big picture view and outline the potential risks for producers.
• Audio: Is Washington Concerned About Feed Availability? - Producer and National Pork Producers Council Board Member Randy Spronk discusses efforts to get Washington's attention on the feed availability issue.
• Audio: Farmland Prices Have Good Support At This Level - Room For More? - Terry Feldheim, Farm Credit Service of America, highlights the support underpinning land prices at these levels.
• Video series: Antibiotic Use In Food Animals - The use of antibiotics in animal agriculture fuels discussion based on few facts and much misinformation. Dispel many of those myths as you review these presentations from the National Institute for Animal Agriculture's 2011 Antibiotic Use In Food Animals conference, held October 26-27, 2011, Chicago, IL, USA.
• Video: What Are Some Risk Management Approaches to Antimicrobial Resistance? - Dr. H. Morgan Scott, Professor, Kansas State University, looks at how surveillance is used, aims to highlight the underlying scientific principles, and share how conflicting pressures are occurring.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host

1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Like what you read here? Share this with others: *|SHARE:Twitter,LinkedIn,Facebook|* You'll want to hear analyst Joe Kerns' conversation from the recent K-State Swine Day. His outlook on feed grain availability and pricing will have you feeling thankful as you head into your holiday weekend.

Also, there is a lot of conversations online as we discuss making the consumer connection with speakers from recent conferences and review the importance of the South Korean Free Trade Agreement. NPPC's Nick Giordano sees even more potential in the upcoming Trans Pacific Partnership negotiations. Stay tuned! How is your swine conference connection developing? Conferences are more than just the event location, presenters, food, and attendees. Each successive event you plan is building a feeling, a movement, possibly even a brand.

To keep that event in the hearts and minds of all involved requires a series of actions that share the experience, information, and value of the conference. Learn more about how Truffle Media Networks can help you with your Conference Connections. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Is There a Better Outlook For Feed Grains? - Joe Kerns, International Agribusiness Group, offers some soothing words for producers dealing with volatile feed costs.
• Audio: Free Trade Agreement Impact to U.S. Pork Markets? - Nick Giordano, NPPC, says the addition of Japan to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations should mean more good new for U.S. producers.
• Video: What is Livestock-Associated Staphylococcus Aureus? - Dr. Tara Smith, Assistant Professor, University of Iowa, provides an update on livestock-associated staphylococcus aureus.
• Video: What are the Challenges in Antibiotic Product Development? - Dr. Scott Brown, Pfizer Animal Health, shares how the challenges in antibiotic product development are being addressed. "Preserving the efficacy of currently available antimicrobials for use in people and animals is a key challenge".

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

The National Institute for Animal Agriculture's Antibiotic Use In Food Animals conference presentations are now online at both the NIAA website and SwineCast.com. Look through the listing and pick one or more for your management team to share. Truffle Media presentations are available long after the conference concludes. Just copy the link and email to whomever, wherever, whenever. Your Connection at Your Convenience.

A special thanks to JBS-United, along with Boehringer Ingelheim and the NPPC, for their support of our coverage at Omaha's International Conference on Feed Efficiency in Swine. A bang up list of speakers, many of who will join us for conversations in coming days. Iowa State's Dr. John Patience leads the list of guests in this recent post. I also compliment Murphy-Brown's Steve Pollmann for his part in putting the program together. In light of high feed prices that may be here to stay, this practical research and information is needed.
SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Feed Efficiency - Is Net Energy A Better Feed Ration Evaluation? - From the International Conference on Feed Efficiency in Swine, Iowa State's Dr. John Patience shares top considerations from his presentation on energy in the swine ration and best methods of measuring cost of energy.
• Audio: Maintaining Access To Animal Antibiotics - A wide range of stakeholders in the use of antibiotics in food animals came together under the leadership of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture to discuss issues and concerns. A panel including representatives from poultry, beef, dairy and swine logged in to share thoughts and answer questions in this Q&A audio.
• Hog Blog: How does MF Global impact the Swine Industry? - AgStar's Steve Malakowsky discusses MF Global, their current bankruptcy, and the issues some producers are experiencing with access to cash.
• Video: Pig Breeding for Improved Feed Efficiency - Pieter Knap, PIC International, shares how breeding stock relates to feed efficiency, and what actions producers should take. Presented at the International Conference on Feed Efficiency in Swine, November 8, 2011, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
• Video: Reaching Out to Consumers - Dr. Mike Lormore, Pfizer Animal Health, shares how producers need to understand consumer issues and respond to the many questions about antibiotics in food animals.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

There's a brief fall conference season which includes meetings in Chicago, North Carolina, Omaha and Kansas City. Various groups but some familiar faces at each. Such is the case in Chicago for the NIAA's Antibiotic Use In Animal Agriculture. Truffle Media and SwineCast.com will be on hand to bring you the presentations (if you couldn't attend) in early November. 

The prior conference, Center for Food Integrity 'Food Systems Summit' is the venue of our most recent post. Dr. Jason Clay, WWF Senior Vice-President, offered his thoughts on meeting the needs of a growing population.  A refreshing thought, to save nature and wildlife, people's needs must come first. Dr. Clay's comments were well received. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Feeding The World Is High Tech - The recent Food Systems Summit pulled together by the Center for Food Integrity provided retail food service and consumer perspectives with much thought provoking interaction. Leading the list of speakers was Dr. Jason Clay of the World Wildlife Fund.  He believes to preserve wildlife and natural habitat, people must come first.
• Audio: Understanding How China Thinks Could Be Key To Our Future - A recent special series by the Wall Street Journal looks at America's potential and how international trading relationshipo will impact our future.  Today's podcast features John and Gloria Naisbitt from the "America, A Porfolio of Ideas" series.  Link to the features is available here.
• Hog Blog: The Value of Swine Facilities - AgStar’s Mark Greenwood discusses values for swine facilities and briefly shares about his recent half marathon running triumph and how it relates to the swine industry.
• Video: Grow/Finish - The Impact of Pig Weight Variation on Marketing Decisions - Dr. Matt Ackerman, Swine Veterinary Services, presents information on the impact of pig weight variation on market decisions.
• Video: 2.0 Feed efficiency - Economic evaluation of feed per unit of gain - Dr. Steve Dritz, Swine Specialist, Kansas State University, provides an update on the factors of feed efficiency, the economic calculations needed, and how to capture those feed efficiency improvements.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Next week is the National FFA Convention (October 19-22) in Indianapolis (tag is #FFAconv11), followed the next week by the Food System Summit program (October 25-26) in Chicago (follow #CFI11), with the National Institute For Animal Agriculture's Antibiotic Use In Food Animals Conference on October 26-27 (tag is #NIAA_Comm), also in Chicago.

The SwineCast Team will be these events, send us a note and we can share a story or two (SwineCast@TruffleMedia.com). SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: At The Meeting Goes Deep On Swine Influenza - Dr. Bob Morrison reviews the Emerging and Re-Emerging Diseases of Swine conference held in Barcelona, Spain. The episode provides a refresh of the influenza virus with updates from the conference.
• Video: Essential Links in a Successful Breeding Management Program - Dr. George Foxcroft, University of Alberta, Edmonton, gives the Pijoan Lecture at the 2011 Allen D. Leman Swine Conference. He talks about genes, gametes and gestation outcomes: essential links in a successful breeding management program.
• Audio: Walking The Leman Conference - Dr. Tara Donovan, The Hanor Company, and Ned Arthur review the Leman Confernece program and highlight the presentations.
• 2011 Leman Swine Conference presentations - The 2011 Leman Swine Conference SwineCast page has been updated to include several additional presentations. The presentations are organized by their conference track (Keynotes, 2.0 Feed Efficiency, Grow/Finish, Gene replacement, PRRS CAP, Keynotes, Water, and Coffee Shop).
• Digital: What Do Farmers, Ranchers, and Marketers Expect? - In a survey conducted Q2 2011, 87% of swine producers listed email as their most valuable communications tool today, with newsletters and magazine at 39% and 25%.

FYI, October 16 is World Food Day with a supporting focus on food from Blog Action Day, also on October 16. Then on October 24th there is Food Day. And on October 25-26 there is the Food System Summit.

These food related events have some overlap in their topic, food. Who doesn't want to eat? Yet each group's mission, belief, and focus have some conflicting interests. What ever your personal beliefs, each of these conversations are a must follow if you have any clients or interest in agriculture, food, or having conversations with consumers. Even better, this is a great opportunity to participate by sharing a story or two about how you see agriculture and food.

Follow or use the hashtags #BAD11 (Blog Action Day), #FoodD (Food Dialogues) , #FoodDay (Food Day), and #CFI11 (Food System Summit).
Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

The annual Allen D. Leman Swine Conference, held September 17-20, 2011, St Paul, MN, is a unique gathering for many industry leaders.  While speakers enjoy sharing 'Leman Moments', the top-notch presentations help bridge the gap from producer to practitioner.

Conversations and keynotes are available at SwineCast.com thanks to the generosity of the University of Minnesota Veterinary Continuing Education Program and Boehringer Ingelheim.

Reminder, the upcoming National Institute for Animal Agriculture's Antibiotic Use in Animal Agriculture conference is coming at a good time, with the recent finding by the GAO that linkage is insufficient to show human resistance resulting from food animal use. If you need to stay on top of this important topic for your organization, be in Chicago Oct. 26 and 27. We'll be there! SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Leman Science In Practice Award Winner - Dr. Gordon Spronk shares his gratitude and thanks for receiving the 2011 Allen D. Leman 'Science In Practice' award at the recent Leman Conference in St. Paul. Also included is the roll call of the new 'Ten Under Forty' Swine Vet Award program recipients by Pfizer's Dr. Steve Sornsen.
• Video: Pathogens in the Twilight Zone - Dr. Peter Davies, University of Minnesota, Pathogens in the Twilight Zone: Update on emerging disease issues with implications for the pork industry. Dr. Davies highlights how the media portrays disease outbreaks and how the swine industry needs to act. From the 2011 Allen D. Leman Swine Conference, September 17-20, 2011, St Paul, MN USA.
• Video: What should we do about flu? - Dr. Montserrat Torremorell, University of Minnesota, presenting the Hanson Lecture, asks "What should we do about flu?". Dr. Torremorell shares how the pig plays a part in the lifecycle of various forms of flu. From the 2011 Allen D. Leman Swine Conference, September 17-20, 2011, St Paul, MN USA.
• Audio: Is Canada Increasing Lead In Animal Traceability? - While the U.S. livestock traceability effort struggles to connect the dots, Jeff Clark, manager of PigTrace Canada, shares how the traceability program north of the border hopes to garner international market share while providing additional animal health benefits.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Leaving for the Leman Swine conference in St. Paul in just a few hours. The pre-conference program begins Saturday and in addition to everything else we'll be covering the PRRS CAP working meeting with special thanks to Dr. Bob Morrison and Boehringer Ingelheim. This is one of the top conferences for swine production in North America, so it is always good information. 

A couple of thought-provoking pieces this week... Bruce Cochrane of Farmscape.ca shares a conversation on traceability. The Canadian industry sees a cooperative tracking effort making a difference in the international marketplace. (Many in the U.S. industry agree.)

Also happened upon a good online presentation we'll share from the Stanford Graduate School of Business as Dr. Robert L. Joss shares his Top 10 Life Lessons. This audio is good for you to share with others (I liked #8 - "Run It Like You Own It"). Get your management team thinking long-term with this link. We also have a link to the video back at SwineCast.com.

The upcoming National Institute for Animal Agriculture's Antibiotic Use in Animal Agriculture conference is coming at a good time, with the recent finding by the GAO that linkage is insufficient to show human resistance resulting from food animal use. If you need to stay on top of this important topic for your organization, be in Chicago Oct. 26 and 27. We'll be there! SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Are Your Top Ten Life Lessons In Order? - Dr. Robert Joss, Professor of Finance, Dean Emeritus of the Stanford Graduate School of Business, shares his Top 10 Life Lessons with a group about to graduate. These thoughts are applicable regardless of your position on the journey.
• Audio: Is Canada Increasing Lead In Animal Traceability? - While the U.S. livestock traceability effort struggles to connect the dots, Jeff Clark, manager of PigTrace Canada, shares how the traceability program north of the border hopes to garner international market share while providing additional animal health benefits.
• What is the Food Dialogues Town Hall? - The U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance has a town hall setup for Sept 22. Ask questions and watch on Facebook or on Twitter with #FoodD. This event will feature a series of panelists, sharing ideas and discussing food issues Americans say they have the most questions about.
• College Aggies Online is Back! - College Aggies Online is an initiative of the Animal Agriculture Alliance to connect college students from across the country who are interested in promoting agriculture. Participants receive training and instructions from industry professionals and enjoy access to a private forum to post information about current and emerging issues facing farmers and ranchers.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

While presentations get polished up for the Leman conference later this month, Boehringer Ingelheim cuts the ribbon on a new viral research lab in Sioux Center, Iowa.  We spoke with leaders on the project, Dr. Ed Robb and Phil Hayes.  And we have a short video tour of the facility.

On the topic of Leman, SwineCast again will bring you keynote speakers and sit in on those presentations you couldn't attend because you were attending another.  If there's something specific you'd like us to cover for use here on SwineCast, drop us a note at Feedback@SwineCast.com.  The most viewed video from last year's program, A Wall Street View Of The Protein Markets is still available here. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Can Mycoplasma Diagnostics Be Improved? - Iowa State's Dr. Erin Strait updates us on what we should expect from Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyo.) diagnostics today and what the future may hold.
• Audio: How Does A Viral Research Facility Get Started? - How does research translate into field knowledge? Boehringer Ingelheim's new Sioux Center facility provides benchmarking support for the research community.
• When did agriculture become a dirty word? - The U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance has setup a Food Dialogue Town Hall September 22, 2011. The Food Dialogues, a virtual Town Hall event, will feature a series of panels in key locations around the U.S. on the food issues Americans say they have the most questions about.
• Audio: How Do You Ensure Animal Handling Policy Compliance? Colorado State's Dr. Temple Grandin believes handling procedures have improved dramatically over the past decade but harbors concern for the 10% of handlers that shouldn't be near animals.
• Video: Tour of the Boehringer Ingelheim Viral Research Facility - This short video tour shares some of the features Boehringer Ingelheim built into their new Sioux Center facility.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Purdue economist Chris Hurt shares his thoughts on recent market action and long-term leveling of feed grains converted to ethanol. Dr. Hurt focuses on the mandate levels and sees some opportunity to rebuild stocks. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: What's On The Schedule At Carthage Swine Vet Seminar? - Dr. Aaron Lower provides an update on the Carthage Vet Service seminar August 30th, in Macomb, IL.
• Audio: What Is The Future For Feedgrains? - While ethanol production has turned corn stocks into fuel, the growth curve should begin to flatten in coming years according to Purdue Ag Economist Chris Hurt.  He spoke to producers at the 2011 Boehringer-Ingelheim Carolina Swine Health Seminar.
• Audio: Mining Your Employee Management Potential - Consultant Orlando Gil discusses his recent post, "Acres of Diamonds", and updates the industry on opportunities to supplement your management team via the Latino workforce.
• Video: Mycoplasma Hyopneumoniae Diagnostics - Dr. Erin Strait, Iowa State University, talks about mycoplasma, how to detect it, and what actions need to be considered.
• Historical perspective: The top two SwineCast videos are Video: A Wall Street View Of The Protein Markets and Video: How Do We Feed Pigs With $5+ Corn? - They highlight that the markets and economy are hard to understand and predict, even by the best in the industry.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

That heat you're feeling is impacting market weights, according to economist Steve Meyer.  He notes in a recent CME Group Newsletter, "Pork wholesale prices have climbed sharply in recent days, with prices in the last five trading days hitting new all time record highs. This has allowed packers to continue to bid up the price of hogs coming to market with hog carcass values now also record high levels.... The latest daily report (Aug 1) showed that the weighted average carcass weight of the 346,810 hogs slaughtered was 198.04 pounds, compared to 200.54 pounds a year ago. Another sign of the sharp decline in hog weights is the tight supply of fat pork trimmings in the marketplace." 

Dr. Meyer also noted Chinese buyers are in the market and moving U.S. pork across the Pacific in a big way.  (To subscribe visit www.dailylivestockreport.com)

A special program discussion with top Ag Lenders looks at the macro issues facing agriculture with perspective on the feed grains and the Farm Bill.  Bottom line, "It's a good time to be in agriculture." SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: What is Agriculture's Macro Economic Condition? - Dr. Terry Barr, CoBank's Knowledge Exchange Group, and Ross Anderson, Chief Credit Officer with AgriBank, discuss major topics of concern in today's agricultural arena.  Do we feed or export grain?  Turn it into ethanol?  And when will the Washington debate turn to the Farm Bill?
• Video: Addressing Salmonella Control and Protecting Food Safety - Dr. John Kolb provides an update on vaccines' effectiveness on post-harvest Salmonella contamination of pig carcasses.
• Video: Time to PRRSv negative pigs - Dr. Daniel Linhares, University of Minnesota, highlights a study on PRRSv comparing the effectiveness of administering live virus vaccine to that of resident virus when used as part of an exposure / closure herd program.
• Keeping Pigs Cool - The midwest is experiencing high heat and humidity this summer. These high temperatures not only make you feel terrible but your livestock can feel bad too. From the University of Minnesota, this document provides guidelines on identifying optimum swine temperature ranges and tactics to keeping the pigs cool.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

The midwest is experiencing high heat and humidity this summer. These high temperatures not only make you feel terrible but your livestock can feel bad too. It is important to keep an eye on the animals and take action before they start to get heat stress.

Dr. Mark Whitney provides a document, "Minimizing Heat Stress in Pigs During the Summer", with guidelines on identifying optimum swine temperature ranges and tactics to keeping the pigs cool. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Seeking Genetic Tolerance To PRRSv - Newsham Choice Genetics is working to identify genes which control tolerance to PRRSv and possibly other health issues. Archie Clutter, VP of Research and Development, shares how their research might come to fruition.
• Video series: What is Happening With Area Regional Control? - Multiple Area Regional Control updates from across the US provide insight into the approaches, tactics, and outcomes for controlling PRRSv.
• Video: The Hidden Profit Robber: Ileitis - Dr. Schwartz highlights why it is important to understand swine intestinal diseases and what the economic impacts to pork production they can have.
• Video: Air Filtration Update - Dr. Scott Dee, University of Minnesota, shares how proper air flow controls can significantly reduce the spread of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSv).
• Audio: How To Determine Your Operations Carbon Footprint - National Pork Board unveiled its new "Pork Carbon Footprint Calculator" at World Pork Expo.  Producers say it's also a good 'What If' tool for energy use in your operation.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

There’s an old story called ‘Grandma’s Ham Pan’ that is relevant and important for today.  Three generations of homemakers continued to cut off the last two inches of ham before baking because ‘Grandma always did’.  And you know the story, Grandma’s ham pan (two inches too short for the ham) was long gone.

The pork industry scored a major coup recently when the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service lowered its temperature recommendation for cooking pork to 145 degrees.  The overdone ‘ham pan’ pork preparation rules of the past will only change as we get the word out to everyone we know, everywhere we can, over and over again.

U.S. pork is the most flavorful, healthy and nutritious protein going. Let’s not lose the consumer in the final fifteen minutes of preparation.

Link to SwineCast.org on cooking temps.
 Key presentations from the 2011 World Pork Expo by the Korean ambassador to the U.S. and releases by the National Pork Producers Council, National Pork Board and Boehringer-Ingelheim, among others, are shared on SwineCast.com. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: What's The Correct Cooking Temperature For Pork? - Chris Novak, National Pork Board president, reviews the positive reception to new cooking temperatures and 'Pork. Be Inspired.' campaign and introduces new Pork Board president Everett Forkner at World Pork Expo.
• Video: Survey of transport vehicle decontamination practices for PRRSv in the swine industry - Peter Schneider, Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, provides insight into how transportation can impact the spread of diseases.
• Video: PRRS diagnostics Comparisons - Deanne Day, Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, provides a comparison of several PRRS diagnostics: serum, tonsil scrapings, and oral fluids in growing gilts with natural exposure.
• Video series: Area Regional Control & Elimination - The Regional PRRS Control/Elimination Project offers several updates on the efforts from across the USA.
• Audio: How To Determine Your Operations Carbon Footprint - National Pork Board unveiled its new "Pork Carbon Footprint Calculator" at World Pork Expo.  Producers say it's also a good 'What If' tool for energy use in your operation.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

The World Pork Expo is the June Industry Event.  SwineCast will be there all three days to listen and learn... then share conversations and presentations in the weeks following.  Boehringer-Ingelheim also is updating the PRRS Area Regional Control Team and you can keep up to date via the videos which will be online at SwineCast.com following the conference.

And be sure to check out the "Executive Pork Producers Program" continuing education conversation with Dr. Jim Lowe.  This new program at the University of Illinois may be just what you're looking for.

A recent Chicago Mercantile Exchange newsletter discusses a "Demand Destruction" paper published at the University of Illinois.  We quote the newsletter/article...

Do high product prices 'destroy demand'? ...The demand for a product, by definition, encompasses the negative relationship between the price of a commodity and the quantity that end users are wiling to consume or, in the case of an intermediary good, use in another productive process. That negative relationship means less quantity consumed at high prices and more quantity consumed at low prices. So one question might be "Do low prices 'construct' or 'build' demand?" That, of course would be the converse of the article title."
Good stuff.  Thanks to Dr. Steve Meyers for bring it to our attention.  If you're not on the CME Daily Livestock Report newsletter mailing list, click here: http://www.dailylivestockreport.com/subscribe.asp SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Easy Tool Helps Improve Air Quality And Animal Environment - Angela Reick-Hinz, Iowa State Extension Agronomist, shares information about the NAQSAT - National Air Quality Site Assessment Tool. This online tool can help you evaluate your livestock system for potential air quality improvement. No data is collected nor is the operation identified.
• Audio: Masters Program In Pork Production... Sort Of? - How can producers network and extend management capabilities in this changing industry environment?  The University of Illinois School of Vet Medicine has openings for the first "Executive Pork Producers Program" certificate program with classes getting underway November of 2011. Think of it as a 'mini-Masters', says facilitator Dr. Jim Lowe.

Agriculture Telling its Story

• Video: Opening the Barn Doors to Connect With Your Community - Commitment to connecting to the community is a key mission for this feed company. Tim Belstra, President, Belstra Milling Co., Inc., shares who they are, what they do, and why they do it.
• Video: Making Safe, Abundant Food Supply a Global Reality - Ted McKinney, Senior Director of Global Affairs, Elanco Animal Health, presents an approach to help extend the conversation about global food production and the acceptance of global agriculture. Details also outlined in Making safe, aff ordable and abundant food a global reality whitepaper.
• Open Ag Questions - This AgChat convo covered questions about weather, air quality, and how health care is handled by those in ag. What's the one executable idea you'll be working on?

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Agriculture continues to build bridges to today's food-conscious consumer, embracing many initiatives.  Several ideas were discussed at the recent Animal Agriculture Alliance Stakeholders Summit in Alexandria, VA.  Truffle Media, as a sponsor of the event, is privileged to share many of those presentations with you over the next several weeks.

One such presentation on a new Iowa effort, the Iowa Food and Family Project, is to introduce the state's farmers to consumers. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: Who Is Driving Consumer Education Efforts? - Consumer education efforts are central to your ability to continue business for the long haul.  Why we do what we do when we do it,  Aaron Putze, Director External Relations, Iowa Soybean Association, joins the conversation with these selected comments from his presentation at the recent Animal Ag Alliance Stakeholders Summit.
• Audio: How Were Japanese Livestock Resources Affected By Earthquake-Tsunami? - U.S. Meat Export Federation President Phil Seng just returned from an extended stay in Japan and discusses the areas impacted by the recent natural disasters and the resulting impact on Japan's consumers and imports of U.S. agricultural products.

Agriculture Telling its Story

• Video: Can Communicating with Consumers Help In Agriculture? - The Pork Checkoff, Dairy Management Inc., and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association are working together to provide producers with the tools to help inform and educate consumers that foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is not a threat to people and does not affect the safety of meat or milk. This presentation by Cindy Cunningham, Assistant VP of Communications, National Pork Board, shares the current state of the Cross Species FMD Communications Team.
• Video: What are the 5 key legal approaches being used against agriculture? - Today agriculture is the target of many organizations that aim to misconstrue or distort claims about farming and thus injuring producers. Chris McDonald, Partner, Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P., shares a presentation on Legal Challenges and Ramifications of Food Production Systems and Food Safety, from the 2011 Annual Conference of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture, April 11 - 14, San Antonio, TX USA.
• World Food Prices - World food prices have been increasing for the last several months. What are some of the issues and how are consumers approaching the issue? This FoodChat conversation brings perspective from those in ag and food experts.
• Missouri Gets Farm Nuisance Lawsuit Bill - Missouri Governor Jay Nixon signed legislation that limits nuisance lawsuits against animal farm operations. This legislation, put into action because of the large number of repeated suits brought against large animal farm operations, will limit the number of nuisance suits allowed.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

Japan remains a key export partner for U.S. swine producers, but what impact will the recent triple disasters (earthquake, tsunami, nuclear) have on this important market?  U.S. Meat Export Federation President Phil Seng is just back from an extended stay in Japan with a situation update for the market as well as how the agricultural production areas have been affected. SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: How Were Japanese Livestock Resources Affected By Earthquake-Tsunami? - U.S. Meat Export Federation President Phil Seng just returned from an extended stay in Japan and discusses the areas impacted by the recent natural disasters and the resulting impact on Japan's consumers and imports of U.S. agricultural products.
• Audio: Does Your Customer Trust You? - Charlie Arnot previews his address to the National Institute of Animal Agriculture annual conference on the consumer's perceptions and role in understanding current and future production practices.
• Audio: Growing World Population Will Depend On You - Dr. Douglas Southgate, Jr., Professor of Agricultural, Environmental, and Developmental Economics, The Ohio State University, looks at both world population and changing demographics, from the recent National Institute of Animal Agriculture annual conference.

Agriculture Telling its Story

• Audio: Animal Ag Alliance, What Is Coming Up? - The Animal Ag Alliance brings tools and resources to agri-professionals to help agvocate agriculture to many Americans not involved in raising food.
• Video: What Is The Pork Industry Carbon Footprint? - Dr. Lisa Becton, Director of Swine Health Information & Research, National Pork Board, provides an update on the sustainability and environmental improvements the pork industry is focused on. From the 2011 Annual Conference of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture, April 11 - 14, San Antonio, TX USA.
• Video: What Are Food Plate Tectonics and What Must Agri-Professionals Know? - In the USA, the lowest income quintile, $13,000 yearly income, spends 28% of their disposable income on food. Yet, also in the USA, the top quintile, $130,000 yearly income,spends 7% of disposable income on food purchases. Matt Sutton-Vermeulen, Unison Resource Company, walks through the ideas of environmental, social, and economic issues for sustainable food, and the contrasts the USA population faces today. From the 2011 Annual Conference of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture, April 11 - 14, San Antonio, TX USA.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.

We're covering the National Institute for Animal Agriculture conference this week and capturing presentations so you'll be able to watch and listen to the information in the next few days.  Be sure to check out the ConferenceConnection tab for this and other recent conference coverage.

This week we had a good conversation which grew from the recent American Association of Swine Veterinarians conference on "What you and your vet need to know about feed alternatives".  Dr. Joel DeRouchey joins us from K State for this excellent information.  SwineCast® Conversations

• Audio: What Are You Doing About Fatigued Pig Syndrome? - Don Down, Elanco's Corporate pork account manager for western Canada and Ontario, discusses fatigued pig syndrome and solutions for your operation. 
• Audio: What Do You (And Your Vet) Need To Know About Feed Alternatives? - Kansas State Nutritionist Dr. Joel DeRouchey shares his presentation to the American Association of Swine Veterinarians annual meeting on alternative feedstuffs.
• Audio series: National Pork Industry Forum - This year saw Pork's new branding position, "Pork. Be Inspired.", support for the US Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, and several updates on policy / economics affecting the industry. These are a series of conversations with experts and attendees.

Agriculture Telling its Story

• Audio: Consumer's Stake in Today's Food Production - Conversation with Scott Stuart, NIAA Board Chairman, about the 2011 National Institute for Animal Agriculture conference April 11 - 14, 2011: Animal agriculture must begin to incorporate consumer desires, wishes, and input into how animals are raised. The first step involves educating farmers and ranchers about the consumer issues and develop goals to bring consumers closer to the process.
• International Trade and Agriculture - How do international free trade agreements affect family farmers? Who are the key trade organizations outside the US that ag businesses need to pay attention to? These and other conversations around international trade were discussed in this AgChat conversation.
• Farmers' Ages an Indicator of Media Consumption Habit - The percentage of US farms being run by those over 55 years old is about 57%. Conversely, 43% of farms are being operated by people under 55. Different ages have different information discover and use patterns.
• Ag and Social Media? - Yes, agriculture does use social media. With 2% of Americans involved with ag food production compared to 100% of everyone eats, there is a need for farmers and ranchers to share their story: social media is a major outlet.

Don't forget to add SwineCast® to your playlist!

Thanks, again, for listening.

Ned Arthur
Your SwineCast Host


1.877.SwineCast (1.877.794.6322)
Feedback@SwineCast.com

Changed your name? Work at a new company? Update your SwineCast® email profile.