The expanding ethanol industry in the United States may once again make Manitoba a cost effective place to finish hogs.


Manitoba Pork Council Chair Karl Kynoch says that would be a huge positive, especially considering Maple Leaf Foods re-organization.


The processor has indicated it will consolidate the majority of its hog operations in our province by the end of 2009.


Kynoch notes currently the economics of finishing hogs in Manitoba aren't great.


He feels as the price of corn rises in the United States due to ethanol demand our feed advantage will return.


Kynoch believes the changes at Maple Leaf coupled with the proposed Olywest plant, may mean farmers not currently producing pigs may consider putting up a barn to take advantage of the opportunity.