Situated in Tamworth, Ontario, between Toronto and Ottawa, an innovative development in the swine industry has emerged. Led by John Slack and his father Mark, Slack Farms has introduced a 625-sow multiplier barn aimed at providing high-quality breeding stock to hog farmers in Ontario. This new barn signifies a significant achievement for the Slack family and the swine industry in the region.
Under a new multiplication contract with DanBred, the barn will specialize in supplying breeding stock, including boar studs featuring Duroc genetics, marking one of the initial introductions of Danish Durocs to North America. This strategic move positions Slack Farms as a key contributor to enhancing the genetic quality and efficiency of hog operations in Ontario.
The Slack family, with a rich history in swine production, has faced challenges in the past, including post-COVID struggles. However, Mark and John Slack have united to rejuvenate their farm with a forward-thinking vision. This barn symbolizes a fresh start for their family and for swine farming in Ontario, with John’s innovative approach and energy revitalizing their operations. The support from their team and partners has been instrumental in the success of this venture.
Equipped with Gestal technology from Jyga Technologies, the new facility prioritizes animal comfort and operational efficiency. Noteworthy features include gestation stalls designed for dry sow comfort, cathedral ceilings, and curtain sides imported from Germany for optimal ventilation, and the Wolf Ventilation System to ensure a healthy environment for sows and gilts.
In conjunction with their 2,500-head gilt rearing barn, Slack Farms will seamlessly transition females raised in the sow barn to the rearing barn, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality gilts for the Ontario market. The operation has also secured a contract to supply Iso Weans and Durocs, further enhancing its versatility and impact in the industry.
The success of this new chapter for Slack Farms is underpinned by partnerships with industry leaders such as DanBred and Demeter, whose technical expertise has been invaluable. With the experience of Mark and Sarah Slack and John’s leadership, the family is laying a strong foundation for the future of swine farming in Ontario.
Located in Tamworth, the farm benefits from ideal isolation, making it an excellent location for gilt rearing and multiplication. The partnership with DanBred and the strategic location are setting Slack Farms up for long-term success. Their story exemplifies resilience and innovation in the swine industry, offering a promising future not only for their family but also for hog farmers in Ontario who will benefit from top-notch breeding stock and cutting-edge technology.
For more updates on industry-leading facilities and advancements in the swine industry, stay tuned to SwineWeb.com.
293 Waddell Road, Stone Mills