Bill 17 will restrict hog operations in the intensively developed Southeastern Manitoba region, the Red River Valley, which is high-risk area for flooding, and the Interlake region that borders two lakes.

Hog producers and opposition critics argue the bill is pitting urban residences against rural food producers. Protesting producers said the bill will hurt Manitoba, kill jobs and have little benefit for Lake Winnipeg. The hog industry across Canada is currently being impacted by several external factors.