Price risk management in Alberta pork production: Current practices, obstacles and improvement strategies

This thesis investigates Alberta pork producers' price risk management practices. A skill profile was developed that reflects current price risk management practices of Alberta pork producers. The study also focused on identifying price risk management practices needing improvement. A small number of one-on-one interviews were completed with producers and service providers to learn more about the management of price risk. Selected statements from these interviews were then validated through surveys by having participants demonstrate their level of agreement. Analysis of producer and service provider responses to the surveys provides evidence of needed change through the creation of a competency profile. Others who develop performance based training programs can now utilize this competency profile to establish performance based outcomes desired by both producers and service providers. Industry will benefit from these types of training activities through enhanced value adding opportunities, better communication, and improved business management practices.