By Edward Lynn, Editor
CLIVE, Iowa — Pork producers across the state will have an opportunity to gain expert insights and industry updates at the annual Iowa Pork Regional Conferences, set to take place Feb. 24-27 at four locations. The conferences are a collaboration between the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, and the Iowa Pork Industry Center (IPIC).
The events aim to provide producers with the latest research, education, and practical strategies to improve their operations. Topics will include barn maintenance, ventilation efficiency, composting best practices, and conservation efforts.
“Iowa Pork is always looking for more ways to engage growers, and these topics were designed to tackle decisions they make on their farms,” said Zoey Dinkla, IPPA’s producer education director. “These conferences are open to anyone, and I believe each person will take valuable information home.”
Industry experts will present on key issues facing pork producers. Brian Blumhagen, director of operations at Altenburg Construction, will discuss maintenance and repair costs for hog barns. Dr. Chris Rademacher, an ISU Extension swine veterinarian, will cover composting techniques for daily operations and emergency situations. ISU Extension agricultural engineers will outline strategies to enhance barn ventilation and reduce costs, while Gracie Greiner Marlow, IPPA’s sustainability manager, will explain the National Pork Board’s Pork Cares Farm Impact Reports. Regional ISU Extension swine specialists will also provide local industry updates.
Each session will run from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., with lunch served at 12:30 p.m. Admission is free, though preregistration is encouraged to ensure adequate materials and meals. Conference dates and locations are:
Feb. 24 – Sioux County Extension Office, Orange City
Feb. 25 – Borlaug Learning Center, Nashua
Feb. 26 – ILCC Tietz Entrepreneurial Center, Algona
Feb. 27 – Washington County Extension Office, Washington
Check-in begins 30 minutes before each session. The Feb. 27 session will be recorded and made available on the IPPA website for those unable to attend in person.
For more information or to , visit the Iowa Pork Producers Association website at iowapork.com, or preregister at https://www.iowapork.org/producers/resources/regional-conferences/register/.
