This final edition of Egg Industry for 2009 is a cause for reflection. Our industry has weathered a severe recession reflected in lower profitability compared to 2008. The months of May through September were especially tough. Prospects for the first three quarters of 2010 appear promising, provided we are not hit with disease or an escalation in the cost of feed ingredients. This unfortunately is beyond our direct control other than judicious hedging, appropriate selection of dietary specifications, prudent formulation and careful management of flocks.
To this observer the outcome of the November ballot in Ohio was a striking success. The lessons learned from the 64% to 36% margin in favor of Issue 2 clearly demonstrate that HSUS is vulnerable and that further appeasement and capitulation is not warranted. Although we won this battle the war continues and we have to be vigilant to protect our facilities from intrusions and agents of the organizations committed to the destruction of intensive livestock agriculture.
The December edition contains updates on the IEC Conference, the most recent production statistics, current news and an interview with a veteran of the cage industry.
As the year winds down my editorial and production colleagues at WATT join me in thanking you for your support during 2009. We wish all our readers, contributors and our allied industry friends our best wishes for a harmonious and productive new year. We look forward to meeting with you all at the 2010 IPE in Atlanta.
