The Government of Canada is extending its support for hog farmers who have downsized their herds to cope with tough economic times, according to an Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) press release.
Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced that the time period covered by the Cull Breeding Swine Program has been extended, which will provide more assistance to farmers.
The $50 million Cull Breeding Swine Program, delivered by the Canadian Pork Council, was announced in February 2008 with the objective of reducing the national breeding herd size by up to 10%.
Key components of the program are as follows:
- Producers are eligible to receive a per head payment for each animal slaughtered, as well as reimbursement for slaughter and disposal costs.
- Producers must agree to empty at least one barn, and not to restock for a three year period.
- Animals must be slaughtered in a humane manner and disposed of in compliance with jurisdictional environmental requirements.
Originally, claims for culled breeding swine were covered between November 1, 2007 and November 30, 2008. The initial date has now been changed to include breeding swine culled between August 1, 2007, and October 31, 2007. Producers have until June 30 to make claims for breeding swine culled during this period.
