Randy Stefanson is among those alarmed by the rapid expansion. He worries most about the environment, including water quality in his region between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. It makes him gag, he said. When you walk out of the house, it's as if you've got your head stuck between the hog's butt. Meanwhile, those who support expansion emphasize diversification opportunities for farmers and a chance to feed grain to livestock rather than paying transportation to port.
Proponents describe hog manure as a natural nutrient source that helps farmers cut fertilizer costs.
And they talk of an industry creating jobs, enriching municipalities and helping reverse rural depopulation. Herb Watson farms near Treherne, Man., and backs industry expansion. The hogs allowed Watson to diversify his farm income. To alleviate lagoon odors, manure is removed twice a year instead of once. The liquid manure is injected into soil, reducing the risk of runoff.