Ohio Porkline: Winter 2023 Edition

OHIO PORK COUNCIL

Sponsors

The Ohio Pork Council would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of 2023 programming and events.

THE PRESIDENT Message from

golf outing, the Ohio State Fair, and every event and activity in between, we would not be as successful as we are. Our mission at the Ohio Pork Council is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers, and we could not do so without the dedication and commitment from our Board of Directors, members, and staff.

Along with the many successes of the Ohio Pork Council throughout the year 2022, the Ohio pork industry has also had many big wins that deserve to be recognized as the year comes to a close. These big wins take shape in a variety of ways, including the continuous progress through the H2Ohio Program, the acquired funding for a new ADDL lab, the work that has been done to keep African swine fever (ASF) out of the United States, as well as the numerous legislative wins we have had. While it is great to celebrate these big wins, it is also important to continue making progress in each one of these areas, as these wins do not mean that the fight is over.

Seger Ohio Pork Council President

OPC Members and Friends of the Pork Industry,

My name is Nick Seger and I am currently serving in the role of President of the Ohio Pork Council Board of Directors. My family and I operate Seger Farm Inc., a farrow-to-finish swine operation and grain farm near Minister, Ohio.

As I enter my first year as president of the Ohio Pork Council, I would like to begin by thanking each and every person who has donated their time, money, and help to our organization. Without the many volunteers and supporters the Ohio Pork Council has through the Virtual Field Trip program, the annual

To kick off the new year, I would like to invite you to join us for the 2023 Ohio Pork Congress. Again, this year, the annual event will be held in Lima, Ohio, on February 7 and 8 at the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center. Join us for an opportunity for pork producers and business professionals to network, learn about industry issues, recognize industry leaders, and support OPC’s Friends of Pork PAC fund. The annual Ohio Pork Congress will feature a trade show, guest speakers who will engage guests in industry related topics, and so much more.

On behalf of the Ohio Pork Council and Ohio’s pork industry, I’d like to personally thank each of you for your continued support and commitment to advancing our industry. I look forward to working together in the new year and hope to see you at the 2023 Ohio Pork Congress.

Sincerely, Nick Seger

Nick

KEEP ASF OUT Mission Accepted:

By Cheryl Day, Executive Vice President

In November, I embarked on a journey with producers, veterinarians, and government officials on a fact-finding mission to sustain the US pork industry. Your Pork Checkoff dollars provided this unique opportunity to an outstanding group of thought leaders. The trip wasn’t about seeing the landscapes of Poland, Belgium, and Germany. It was learning firsthand from pork-producing countries, unfortunately, experiencing African Swine Fever and translating information gained into relevant foreign animal disease prevention and preparedness measures for the United States.

While the insight we gathered will officially be placed in a final report including industry action items for the US pork industry, here is my personal list of takeaways.

• The number one piece of advice received from every government official, producer, and allied industry member was, “Take all measures to keep ASF out.”

• “You get it in the wild boar, you LOSE!” The game is over if we get in the U.S. feral hog population. For the EU, the wild boar (feral hog) is a native species and the number one culprit in ASF-positive countries, and it is the biggest risk for the United States. A targeted, smart plan for eradication is the best prevention measure to take. It is time to diminish the idea of game-hunting feral hogs and eliminate this invasive species from the United States.

• Harmonization. All prevention measures, response plans, and communications must be fully harmonized from the farm to local government to state government to federal government. It clearly means the industry must shape the entire plan and all states in the United States must remain aligned with the plan. In a nation of independents, this could be an enormous challenge.

• The United States pork industry needs to maximize surveillance and traceability to fully protect America’s pig herd. By nature as producers, full traceability and surveillance during peacetime can cause anxiety and fear that government is intrusive. In reality, it is a solid protection measure. Producers can take control by voluntarily enrolling in US Swine Health Improvement Plan (volunteer accreditation program for ASF) and signing up for AgView to assist you with pig movement.

• “Biosecurity is the mentality of the people.” Truck washes and truck sanitation certification programs are fundamental tools for preventing the disease from spreading. It is possible to reduce the spread of other production-limiting diseases if truck washes were strategically located (such as processing plants) and a requirement for livestock hauling.

• While wild boar were the initial introduction source of ASF in EU countries, people played a major role in spreading the outbreak. In Belgium and Germany, wild boar consumed ASFcontaminated meat from unsecured garbage in public park areas.

• A well-built fence can keep feral hogs out. However, just make sure you consult a Dane.

• While none of the ASF-positive countries have fully recovered their export market, effective regionalization and rigid zones have allowed countries like Poland to export pork. Agreements must be established to continue trade between US, Canada, and Mexico. EU can continue trade among themselves. We must work to keep each state open to trade of pork during an outbreak.

• Countries not recovering well from ASF were slow to react or lack regulations on hunting and backyard operations.

• The supply chain disruptions during COVID-19 were a pressure test for ASF. Ohio took large strides to protect its pork industry. However, there is more work to be done. The list was longer after time spent with government officials and veterinarians. Still, it will take all Ohio pig farmers – no matter the size of the farm –to completely protect pork production in the state.

WHY ATTEND? Ohio Pork Congress

People are the pork industry’s most valuable assets. The winter meeting circuit can create competition for time for you and your team. Investing in people’s personal development is never a bad investment. Ohio Pork Congress delivers relevant information for everyone in the pork industry from pig caretakers to team members to decision makers and allied industry partners.

Plan to attend Ohio Pork Congress – the only pork-specific educational experience in Ohio – on February 7-8. Registration is now open, reserve your spot today!

Keynote

As president of Aimpoint Research, Scott Caine leads the organization in its mission to empower intelligence driven organizations and give clients a competitive advantage. Through his more than 25 years of experience in organizational leadership he has honed and gained a diverse set of skills including: strategic and sector operations; marketing, marketing research, enterprise planning and business strategy.

Caine will join the Ohio Pork Congress as the keynote speaker for the Awards Luncheon that will take place on February 8, with a presentation focused on the “Next Generation Consumer.” Those in attendance will gain insight on how shifting consumer preferences are driving the evolution of our food system. Caine will focus in on the five macro forces that are propelling this shift and clue the audience in on this new generation of consumers that are driving the shift we are seeing as agriculturalists.

Let’s Count the Reasons

(1)

Value for All

No matter your role in the industry, you can find value in the speakers from around the United States bringing the leading topics to Ohio for an educational agenda designed for the swine business.

(2) Ignite Your Team

Start the year off with a learning experience that broadens your team’s knowledge and skills. We encourage your entire team to attend and learn in a welcoming environment that activates the brain in new ways and offers opportunities for fresh and flexible thinking. Connecting with people who may think differently or have varying opinions can challenge your team.

(3) Thought Provoking

We select a keynote speaker who pushes you past your limits and motivates you to think differently about the business of raising pigs.

(4)

Connecting with Your Tribe

The camaraderie of this statewide event is an experience all its own. Everyone attending the annual conference has something in common with you. Here is a wonderful opportunity for one-

on-one conversations in hallways or sharing meals with fellow pork producers.

(5)

Swine-Specific Trade Show

The 2023 Ohio Pork Congress offers the largest trade show in the Mid-East, educational seminars, networking opportunities and much more, making it a must-attend event for all pork professionals.

Businesses serving Ohio’s pig industry will be on-site to showcase the latest technology and services. You need a pork-specific trade show and Ohio Pork brings it to you under one roof.

When is Ohio Pork Congress?

Tuesday, February 7 - Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Where is Ohio Pork Congress?

Lima Convention Center

Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center stands in Lima’s Town Square and is the hub of the community’s cultural life. The address is 7 Town Square, Lima, Ohio 45801.

Parking: There is plenty of parking at the Market Street Parking garage, located on West Market. The garage provides handicap accessibility and access to the Civic Center without exposure to the weather elements. There is an elevator and walkway to provide easy access to the Civic Center.

Where to Stay?

The main hotel for the event will be the Wingate by Wyndham, which is attached to the convention center. The hotel is limited to 100 rooms. A room block has been set up for room nights on February 7-8, 2023. Room rates vary from $90-$150 depending on the room type.

Reservations must be made by January 15, 2023. To book your room in the block, you must call the hotel directly at (419) 228-7000 and reference Ohio Pork Congress.

Why should I attend Ohio Pork Congress?

There’s something for everyone — an expansive trade show, educational seminars, industry updates and networking.

How can I register for Ohio Pork Congress?

By form on page 13 or by scanning the QR Code

2023 Ohio Pork Congress EXHIBITORS

A1 Ag Services LLC Ft Recovery, OH www.a1ag.com

Acuity/Fast Genetics Ames, IA fastgenetics.com

AgCreate/Pork Avenue Training Portal Monticello, IL agcreate.com

AgCredit Fostoria, OH www.agcredit.net

Altenburg Construction, Inc Lewisville, MN www.altenburgconstruction.com

Automated Production Assumption, IL www.automatedproduction.com

Bambauer Fertilizer & Seed Jackson Center, OH www.bambauerfertilizer.com

BarnTools West Des Moines, IA barntools.com

Boehringer-Ingelheim Hilliard, OH www.boehringer-ingelheim.us

Cambridge Technologies Worthington, MN cambridgetechnologies.com

Central Life Sciences Newburg, PA www.centrallifesciences.com

Choice Genetics West Des Moines, IA choice-genetics.com

CIH, LLC Chicago, IL www.cihedging.com

Clipper Distributing Company, LLC St. Joseph, MO www.clipperdist.com

Commercial Concepts AI, Inc Needmore, PA

Crystal Spring Hog Equipment Omaha, NE crystalspring.com

CSA Animal Nutrition Dayton, OH csaanimalnutrition.com

DNA Genetics Columbus, NE dnaswinegenetics.com

Endovac Animal Health Omaha, NE endovacanimalhealth.com

Farm Credit Mid-America Louisville, KY farmcredit.com

Farmer Boy Myerstown, PA farmerboyag.com

Farmweld Teutopolis, IL farmweld.com

FarrPro, Inc Iowa City, IA www.farrpro.com

Gasolec America, Inc Tulsa, OK gasolecusa.com

Genesus Genetics Oakville, MB endovacanimalhealth.com

Hawkins Inc New Philidelphia,OH www.hawkinsinc.com

Hog Slat Independence, IA www.hogslat.com

Homan Inc. Maria Stein, OH homaninc.com

Hubbard Feeds Mankato,MN hubbardfeeds.com Hypor Noblesville, IN www.hypor.com

2023 Ohio Pork Congress EXHIBITORS

Innovative Heating Technologies Oak Bluff, MB innovativeheatingtech.com

Jimdi Inc Pittsburgh, PA www.jimdiinc.com

JYGA Technologies, Inc Knoxville, TN jygatech.com

Kalmbach Upper Sandusky, OH www.kalmbachfeeds.com

Martin Insurance Muncie, IN insuredbymartin.com

Maximus Jenison, MI www.maxagtech.com

Merck Animal Health Hilliard, OH www.merck.com

Motomco Windsor, WI www.motomco.com

Munters Corporation Lansing, MI www.munters.com

National Pork Board Des Moines, IA pork.org

Novus International St Charles, MO novusint.com

NPPC Urbandale, IA nppc.org

Osborne Industries, Inc Osborne, KS osborne-ind.com

Paradise Energy Solutions Paradise, PA www. paradiseenergysolutions.com

PIC Hendersonville, TN www.pic.com

PigCHAMP, Inc Ames, IA www.pigchamp.com

PigEasy Templeton, IA pigeasy.com

PigTek, Chore-Time Milford, IN pigtek.net

Pork Friendly B.M. LLC & Swine Alliance Group Brownsburg, IN www.porkfriendlybm.com

Purina Animal Nutrition Francisco, IN www.purinamills.com

QC Supply Schuyler, NE www.qcsupply.com

Sedgwick Dublin, OH www.sedgwick.com/ohiotpa

Soppe Systems, Inc Manchester, IA www.supplemilk.com

Sustainable Environmental Consultants West Des Moines,IA sustainableenviro.com

Swineworks Nashville, TN swineworks.com

Thorp Equipment Thorp, WI www.thorpequipment.com

Topigs Norsvin USA Burnsville, MN topigsnorsvin.us

United Animal Health Sheridan, IN www.unitedanh.com

Washpower Inc Chicago, IL washpower.com

Zoetis Churubusco, IN www.zoetis.com

Tuesday,

SCHEDULE AND SPEAKERS

SWINE HEALTH SYMPOSIUM AND OHIO PORK CONGRESS

7:00 - 8:00 Registration (Trade show open with refreshments)

8:00 - 9:00 Sow Livability

Jason Ross, ISU

9:00 - 10:00 Zinc – Feed Nutrition

10:00 - 10:30 Break

10:30 - 11:00 FAD are you ready?

Dr. Dennis Summers, State Veterinarian

11:00 - 12:00 Raising the Bar on Biosecurity

Dr. Arruda, OSU, Dr. Bowman, OSU, Dr. Nolting, OSU

12:00 - 12:30 Lessons Learned from USDA HPAI Stacy Herr, Indiana Pork

12:30 - 1:30 Lunch (served in the trade show area)

1:30 - 2:00 The Intersections of Human Health and Animal Agriculture Matthew Rooda, SwineTech

2:00 - 3:00 PRRS – Practical

Dr. Giovani Trevisan, ISU, Dr. Daniel Linhares, ISU

3:00 - 4:00 PRRS Resistant through Gene Editing Banks Baker, PIC

4:00 - 5:00 Reception

5:00 - 7:00 PAC Auction

sustainability tomorrow’s

Today’s grows pork.

Real producers show that real pork is real sustainable.

Your Pork Checkoff dollars are promoting Real Pork and delivering real results. More than 250 farms are receiving a personalized on-farm sustainability report that helps prove that real pork is real sustainable. Learn more at porkcheckoff.org.

Visit the National Pork Board booth at the Ohio Pork Congress to see more results of your Checkoff investment! We are located at Booth #3.

®2022 Copyright. National Pork Board. This message is funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

SCHEDULE AND SPEAKERS

SWINE HEALTH SYMPOSIUM AND OHIO PORK CONGRESS

7:00 - 7:30

Early Bird Registration

7:30 Trade Show Open

8:00 - 9:00

Work Visas: Behind the Scenes

Victor Ochoa, SwineWorks

9:00 - 10:00

Sustainability – State and National Efforts

Ashley McDonald, NPB

10:00 - 10:30 Break

10:30 - 11:00 NPPC’s Political Strategy

Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO

11:30 - 12:30 Managing Economic Risk

12:30 - 3:00 Awards Luncheon

1:30-2:30

Next Generation Consumer

Keynote Speaker: Scott Caine, President of Aimpoint Research

APPLY FOR OPC SCHOLARSHIPS Encourage a Deserving Student to

The Ohio Pork Council is pleased to announce that the application for 2023 OPC scholarships is now available! Applications are for scholarships to be awarded for the 20232024 school year.

Again this year, the Ohio Pork Council will offer three scholarships: the Ohio Pork Council Scholarship, the OPC Women’s Scholarship, and the Dick Isler Scholarship.

For more information regarding the scholarships and the application process visit www.ohiopork.org/scholarships.

To be eligible for scholarship consideration, all applicants or his/her parents must be actively involved in the pork industry. Children of pork industry employees, managers, and contract growers are eligible. Applicants, or their parents, must be a member of the Ohio Pork Council and residents of Ohio. Applicants entering their freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior years of college are encouraged to apply. Students entering their junior or senior year of college or graduate school are encouraged to apply for the OPC Women’s Scholarship.

Applications are due no later than January 6, 2023.

SEEKS SUMMER INTERNS Ohio Pork Council

The Ohio Pork Council is looking for three highly motivated interns to join their team during spring/summer 2023.

Communication Intern

The Ohio Pork Council is looking for a highly driven communications intern to join their team during summer 2023.

The ideal candidate should be majoring in the field of agriculture, communications, marketing or journalism, preferably going into their junior or senior year of college. Knowledge of swine and modern agriculture is a plus, but not required.

The intern will be responsible for developing written and graphic communications for members, the media and consumers, increasing member participation and awareness of producer education programs, promotion of education and food stands at the Ohio State Fair, as well as special events planning and volunteer recruitment.

The Ohio Pork Council communications internship is sure to provide a variety of learning opportunities and awesome experiences within the agriculture field. Interested applicants can view the complete job description at ohiopork.org/ internship/, with applications due January 6, 2023.

OH-PIGS Program Intern

The Ohio Pork Council OH-PIGS Program Intern will be responsible for efficient and effective communication with the Program Manager on expectations on a week-to-week basis. The intern will work closely with the Program Manager to ensure

that the OH-PIGS program has a successful line-up of shows.

Applicants should be majoring in the field of agriculture or a related program area at the collegiate level. Applicants should have working knowledge of show pig programs, as well as knowledge of modern agriculture and pork production. Those interested in the internship should have solid public speaking and writing skills, be very organized, have the ability to work independently, and travel to and from required events. Additionally, applicants should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and other similar programs.

Interested applicants can view the complete job description at ohiopork.org/internship/, with applications due January 6, 2023.

OSF Pig Care and Education Intern

The Ohio Pork Council Pig Care and Education Intern will serve as the key staff person at the 2023 Ohio State Fair Birthing Center. During the 12-day event, the intern will play an integral role in providing quality animal care, monitoring the farrowing process, and maintaining a positive public perception for fairgoers in attendance.

Applicants should be majoring in the field of agriculture, communications, or education, preferably going into their junior or senior year. Previous experience working with swine is required. Related experience conducting agriculture education

programs or working with consumers is a plus. Applicants should have the ability to provide superior animal care, solid public speaking skills and feel comfortable answering questions regarding Ohio’s pork industry.

PIGTEK

Applicants should be self-motivated, have the ability to work independently and thrive in fast- paced environments.

All applications for the Ohio Pork Council internships can be found at www.ohiopork.org/internship/.

HAS

PREP FOR ANY “PROP” THAT COMES YOUR WAY. PARTNER WITH PIGTEK.

Ad No. PT-2653-2022Q4-4v-BW

Awards

PORK INDUSTRY EXCELLENCE

The Ohio Pork Industry Excellence Award is presented to a pork farmer, or farm family, for their willingness to go above-and-beyond to donate time, money, and talents on behalf of the industry. This year, the Ohio Pork Council is pleased to recognize Wendell Waters for his contributions to the pork industry – both at a state and national level.

Wendell is known across the state of Ohio for his dedication and continued advocacy for the agricultural industry. It can easily be agreed upon that he has truly changed the face of Ohio agriculture over the years.

Wendell began his career as a vocational agriculture teacher at Ridgewood Local Schools, and later formed WenMar Farms Inc. with his wife, Marcia. Today, WenMar Farms Inc. consists of 4,000 acres of corn and soybeans, and a 3,600-sow farrow-tofinish hog operation.

Along with WenMar Farms Inc., Wendell is known for playing a key role in the development of the PGI Group in 1994. The PGI Group was a coalition of pig farmers that lowered costs through standardized genetics, jointly marketing animals to increase market prices, and sharing practices that helped to make advancements in the pork industry. Wendell has been a true champion of Ohio agriculture and the Ohio pork industry for more than 50 years and has always given his all to helping advance the industry.

Wendell and his family reside in West Lafayette, Ohio, where they can still be found immersed in Ohio agriculture.

Congratulations, Wendell!

OPC SERVICE

Every year, the Ohio Pork Council presents the Ohio Pork Industry Service Award to an individual who exemplifies outstanding service to the swine industry. This individual exceeds volunteer expectations and is willing to support the pork industry in various ways. This year, the Ohio Pork Council is pleased to recognize Rich Deaton with the 2022 Ohio Pork Industry Service Award.

Rich is a sales and technical service representative for PIC, while also serving on the Ohio Pork Council and board of directors of the National Pork Board. Rich began his time on the OPC Board in 2011, where he went on to serve a two-year term as president. His tenure on the board has also led him to participation in countless committees and serving as a Pork Act Delegate. His dedication to the pork industry doesn’t end with just his service to Ohio, Rich has played an integral role on the NPB Board of Directors since 2018, where he is also a member of several committees focused on the betterment of the pork industry.

Throughout his career and time spent involved in the pork industry, Rich has devoted countless hours to promotion, advancement, and research development, while always keeping producers’ freedom to operate at the forefront of his decision making as a leader in the industry.

Rich resides in Darke County, Ohio, with his wife.

Congratulations, Rich!

Wendell Waters

Rich Deaton

PORK PROMOTER OF THE YEAR Awards

The Pork Promoter of the Year Award is given to an individual or company that excels in promoting the pork industry. This year, the Ohio Pork Council is pleased to honor Ken Garee as the Pork Promoter of the Year.

Ken has been an active member of the Ohio Pork Council’s Board of Directors and currently serves as the president-elect for the organization. He has been an integral part of the success of events such as the annual PAC Auction at the Ohio Pork Congress and the pork stand at the Ohio State Fair. Along with his efforts within the Ohio Pork Council, Ken works at Kalmbach Feeds as a swine logistics coordinator.

The success of the pork stand at the 2022 Ohio State Fair is due in part to Ken’s service as the “grill master.” His dedication and willingness to learn the art of grilling, smoking, and preparing the pork that is served at the Taste of Ohio Café went above and beyond his duties.

Along with being the one cooking up all of your favorite pork dishes at the state fair, Ken saw an opportunity to connect with the public and ran with it, full speed ahead. If you follow the Ohio Pork Council on Tik Tok, Instagram, or Facebook there is a good chance you’ve seen Ken in action in the pig costume, or otherwise known as “Mr.Pig.” Ken spent many hours in this pig costume during the Ohio State Fair; taking pictures with fair goers, marching in parades, riding the big slide, and taking several trips on the skylift. The time Ken spent as “Mr. Pig” helped to bring attention to the Ohio pork industry at the state fair and increase the presence of OPC on social media.

While there is no doubt that Ken has become quite famous for his grilling skills and his “Mr. Pig” appearances, his ability to educate and promote all things Ohio pork is what truly sets him apart from others. His passion for promoting Ohio’s pork industry radiates through his work with the Ohio Pork Council.

Ken resides in Delaware, Ohio, with his wife and daughter.

Congratulations, Ken!

Ken Garee

SWINE MANAGER OF THE YEAR Awards

The Ohio Pork Council Swine Manager of the Year award recognizes a leader of a swine operation who is highly knowledgeable of the pork industry and has demonstrated the ability to make key decisions on behalf of their operation. This year, the Ohio Pork Council is pleased to recognize Todd Post as the 2022 Swine Manager of the Year.

Todd is a graduate of The Ohio State University, where he studied Animal Science and was very involved in the agriculture department. His passion for pork and working with pigs led him to a career with Cooper Farms as the lead service person, where he has been employed since 2012.

Throughout Todd’s 10 years with Cooper Farms, he has been instrumental in the growth of their hog division while working hand in hand with the contract families who grow with Cooper Farms. Those that work alongside Todd often credit his communication and true passion for working with pigs and people.

Above all else, Todd’s passion for pigs shines through his work on a daily basis. Todd’s ability to ensure the culture of the operation is based on respect for the contract families and the pigs’ health and safety does not go unnoticed by those he works with. His commitment to the agricultural industry goes well beyond his normal job duties, and he can often be found working towards making improvements in sustainability, as well as helping those around him adapt to the changes in the pork industry.

Todd and his wife, Sara, and their four children reside in Fort Recovery, Ohio.

Congratulations, Todd!

ROBUST | PROVEN PIC has been improving the Camborough® for 60 years. That commitment has made her the world’s highest-performing female in varying production environments across the globe. The Camborough® is easy to manage with fewer non-productive days and requires less feed in her lifetime than competitor sows. She continues to deliver heavier pigs with greater pre-wean survivability. What could be better? The PIC Camborough® next year. And the year after that. Contact your PIC representative today.

EFFICIENT

Todd Post

Automation that comes to work every day.

Combining a Grow-Disk feed system with SowMAX feed dispensers provides laborsaving automation without computer glitches. Feed sows better with less labor and fewer headaches. Call us today and get a customized quote for your farm.

FRIEND OF PORK Awards

The work of the Ohio Pork Council is made possible by the many generous supporters who devote time to enhance the organization’s efforts on behalf of all producers. To acknowledge their efforts and express gratitude, OPC established the Friends of Ohio Pork Industry award.

This award recognizes an individual, organization, or company that has made a substantial impact on the organization through monetary support, voluntary activities, or general support to the pork industry throughout the year(s). The Ohio Pork Council is pleased to honor Bob Gibbs.

As a small businessman and Ohio pig farmer for over three decades, Gibbs took his knowledge and advocacy of Ohio agriculture to the next level. He began his role in promoting agriculture while attending The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute, where he graduated in 1974. His passion for agriculture continued developing through his experiences in leadership within organizations such as the Ohio Farm Bureau.

Gibbs decided to take his knowledge to government affairs where he served three terms in the Ohio House of Representatives and was then elected to the Ohio Senate in 2008. The time he spent in both the House and the Senate allowed him to use his knowledge and passion for agriculture to advocate for our Ohio pig farmers. During his time in the Ohio legislature, he served as the chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee and was the vice-chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

In a time when agriculture needed someone to stand up for them on a national level, Gibbs did just that. His positive impact on Ohio’s pork industry will not soon be forgotten by our producers.

Congratulations, Bob Gibbs!

Bob Gibbs

NEW BOARD MEMBERS Ohio Pork Council

Nathan Isler, District II

Nathan is part owner of Islercrest Farms Inc. and Isler Genetics Inc. located in Prospect, Ohio. Isler’s role in the operation includes working in the farrow-to-finish operation, as well as with the show pigs that his family raises and shows across the country. Nathan’s entire life has revolved around the pork industry, and agriculture as a whole. Within the community, Nathan and his family are involved in the Marion County Farm Bureau as well the Marion County Pork Producers, where they help to host an OH-PIGS Jackpot Show each year.

Jarred Black, District VI Jarred Black grew up on a farrow-towean farm in Fairfield County, Ohio, and began working for Kalmbach Swine Management in 2011. Jarred’s career at Kalmbach began at Cardinal Pork, a 2,500 head sow farm. In the fall of 2011, Jarred transitioned to the finishing team and began his current role as a Production Supervisor. Over the past decade, Jarred has worked with contract finishers across north central and western Ohio. Jarred comes to the Ohio Pork Council Board of Directors as a graduate of the Pork Leadership Institute (PLI) and as an active member of the Ohio Pork Council’s committees.

In addition to the newly elected directors, Clark Jordan and John Heinz were re-elected to serve as Directors-at Large. Additionally, Nick Seger was elected president, Ken Garee chosen to serve as vice president, and Nathan Schroeder was selected to serve as treasurer, with Ryan McClure shifting to the past president role.

Ryan McClure Past President

Nick Seger President

John Heinz Director-at-large

Ken Garee Vice President

Nate Schroeder Treasurer Clark Jordan Director-at-large

& BACON Bourbon

Ohio Pork Council hosted the first ever Bourbon & Bacon event on October 29, 2022, at Arlington Acres in Tiffin, Ohio. This gourmet four-course pork meal was more than just a special event for OPC Sponsors. Bourbon & Bacon was a high-end experience for all who attended, providing an amazing pork eating experience to the public while connecting them with Ohio pig farmers.

Prepared by Chef Aaron Weible from Sweetwater Chophouse, the four course meal highlighted pork in ways the public may not normally experience. The Renaissance of Tiffin hosted a guided bourbon tasting during appetizers, walking guests through the history and drinking experiences of a selection of four hand-picked bourbons.

Murmurs of “the best pork chop I ever ate” and “versatility of pork” echoed through attendees, emphasizing why Ohio Pork Council hosts events such as Bourbon & Bacon. The future of Ohio pig farmers is dependent on consumption of pork, and events like Bourbon & Bacon leave lasting marks on the public. We can preach 145° messaging, but until the public are able to experience pork in the juicy, delicious way we all know is possible, it is difficult for them to push past the stigma that lingers over pork of being dry and unenjoyable.

Bourbon & Bacon allowed the public to interact directly with Ohio pig farmers. With less than 2% of the population feeding the world, consumers are losing contact with those producing our food. Being able to sit down at a table with an Ohio pig farmer is an experience that leaves a mark on the public. Mallory Harr, a food blogger who attended, expressed her interest in learning more about the industry — from the We Care movement to a desire to shower into a farm next year. Chris Simpkins, another food blogger who was in attendance, highlighted the versatility of pork in his posts along with eating experience. Bourbon & Bacon left a mark on the public who attended.

Ohio Pork Council plans to expand upon Bourbon & Bacon and other consumer facing experiences like it. Bourbon & Bacon is set to be held again next year, so mark your calendars — August 19, 2023, at Arlington Acres in Tiffin, Ohio. Events such as Chops & Hops, Swine & Wine, and other important pork eating experiences are on the horizon for 2023.

We appreciate all the partners who helped to make this event happen — Sweetwater Chophouse, Cooper Farms, Arlington Acres, and the Renaissance of Tiffin.

FAD TRAINING FOR OHIO PORK INDUSTRY The Ohio State University Offers

By Christine Snowden, OSU Graduate Research Associate and Andy Bowman, DVM OSU Associate Professor

As the threat of African swine fever continues to inch closer to the mainland United States, the team at The Ohio State University is working hard to equip and prepare Ohio’s pork producers. OSU staff investigating depopulation and disposal methods prepared a one-day training for the Ohio pork industry. The training program is funded by USDA’s National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program.

The purpose of this training was to aid Ohio’s producers by providing knowledge of the Emergency Action Plan pertaining to Foreign Animal Disease and general preparedness of producers for an FAD. The Ohio State team held their first training on October 20, 2022, at The Ohio State’s Wooster Campus. The invitation to the training was sent to various members of the pork industry to get feedback from all perspectives. There were 28 participants with backgrounds including: producers, veterinarians, swine genetics, sale barns, regulators, and educators.

The one-day training opened with five learning modules presented in a classroom setting and participants finished the day with hands-on learning of depopulation and disposal. The five modules were designed with the Ohio African Swine Fever and Classical Swine Fever Emergency Action Plan that is

continually being refined by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Topics for the modules included Introduction to an FAD Outbreak, Currently Approved Depopulation Methods, Currently Approved Disposal Methods, Getting Back to Business Following an FAD, and Mental Health, Communication, and Information Management. Interactive portions within these modules include an overview of AgView, herd plan creation topics, and curve balls to the herd plans, all to help producers create their own plans following the training. Time was provided for participants to ask questions to the presenter at the conclusion of each module.

Following the morning spent in the classroom, participants got hands-on with depopulation using water-based foam and disposal with the carcass grinding method of composting. During this time participants were given a demonstration of the equipment needed to perform depopulation with water-based foam and then asked to set up the equipment within their teams with the use of a manual designed by Ohio State. Once the equipment was ready, teams took turns using it. Participants were then taken through the compost process by a Senior Subject Matter Expert in Composting (SME) as they would be in a real-life scenario.

The composting process concluded the training. Feedback from the participants was extremely positive. As a result, many participants have started to create their own herd plans and have continued meetings with the SME on how to be best prepared for an FAD.

ATHLETICS PARTNERSHIP Ohio State

OPC has embraced the opportunity to partner with Ohio State Athletics for several years now. This year’s partnership is proving to be extremely beneficial, with football season just wrapping up.

OPC’s presence was felt in many ways throughout the Ohio Stadium — from fan connect signage to the bacon vending machine — promoting pork in several formats. Digital advertisements featuring the tagline “Pork: The Best Protein” are seen across Ohio State Athletics’ website. This campaign is guaranteed 500,000 impressions, with a click through link to OHpork.org. Impressions from this are incredibly important, as the audience they are reaching is far greater than the audience our traditional forms of advertisement can reach and are an audience we normally are not able to reach. These advertisements are also included in a weekly email from OSU athletics.

OPC signs are located throughout the Ohio football, hockey, and basketball venues for fans to see throughout the sports seasons. These signs tote the tagline “Pork: Perfect Protein for a Powerful Team” alongside our logo. The image of pork chops was carefully chosen for these signs; sports fans often grill, it is eye-catching, and it looks delicious. It has been shown that pork is a planned purchase and often consumers need a push to bring it to top-of-mind awareness. Alongside these signs, the OPC logo will be found on the north scoreboard during games and a 30-second radio ad played during each game.

A more physical aspect of this partnership is the bacon vending machine. This year, the BVM was located in the football stadium on the B concourse located near entrance 38. It was stocked full of Sugerdale, Smithfield and Hormel bacon and bacon bits.

The BVM is an incredible asset for OPC, as it is a perfect talking point. This year, we have sold 59 units of bacon at the football games, but our impressions were far greater. Thousands of people walked by the BVM every game and I am certain that hundreds of conversations sprouted about the novelty of the item. Each of those conversations brought pork, and bacon, to the top-of-mind.

Partnerships with large entities, such as The Ohio State University, are difficult to rationalize. This partnership allows Ohio Pork Council to reach large audiences with carefully curated information, highlighting pork in a beneficial way.

NEWSLETTER Consumer

Reaching the public is a high priority here at Ohio Pork Council, and monthly consumer newsletters are an amazing way to chip at this goal. By hosting events throughout the year, we are able to collect thousands of emails — from those buying tickets at events to those voting for their favorite meal at OSF Pork Rib-Off. Instead of these emails sitting around, we are putting them to good use!

At the beginning of every month, OPC sends out a consumer newsletter highlighting pork in a way that is relevant to that month. November and Thanksgiving, October and National Pork Month, August and Back-to-School recipes, etc. Each email is a collection of relevant recipes, videos/content related about pork, and interactions with Ohio pig farmers through the Real Pork. Real Farmers. videos. These emails are the perfect opportunity for OPC to reinforce trends in the consumer eye. For example, ground pork is trending in today’s economy (Google Meat + Poultry’s “Pork appeal on the rise” for more information). In response to this, the August consumer newsletter was focused specifically on ground pork and how it is an asset for back-toschool meals, just in time for students to go back to school. This

was more than just “hey try this ground pork meal.” It was a systematic explanation of the types of ground pork, why there are different lean-to-fat percentages and what they are used for, and proper cooking temperatures. All of this is presented in a simple, eye-catching way that is easy for the public to consume.

Now we can preach all day that these graphics and photos that we are creating/choosing are eye-catching and amazing for the public, but we know y’all want tangible evidence. Open rates are an amazing benchmark for email newsletters. In 2022, the average email open rate was 21.5% across all industries, up 3.5% from 2020, according to Campaign Monitor. We rolled out the new consumer newsletter in July, meaning we have seven months of data to observe. All seven emails have reached the average, with six of them exceeding. With our email list consisting of over 20,000 emails and only growing with every day, these opening rates verify that the work put into these email sends is reaching people.

Interested in learning more about the consumer newsletter? Go to ohpork.org/newsletter to see previous (and future) emails.

FoodBLOGGERS

Ohio Pork Council partners with several food bloggers as they work, often behind-the-scenes, to improve consumer perception of what Ohio pig farmers do. These bloggers’ main goal is twofold — to build trust in farmers by sharing information with influencers about food and how it is grown and raised and increasing consumer awareness of how to cook pork in a way that results in a juicy, tender, and flavorful eating experience.

In the 2021-2022 fiscal year, OPC food bloggers were able to gain 1.4 million impressions — meaning over 1.4 million unique individuals were able to see OPC messaging. These impressions were gained in just 24 blog posts!

So why is this important? Consumer perception is a major priority for those in our field and social media is a direct line to these consumers. Most of our population consume their news and form their opinions from social media, so being able to spread OPC messaging by these individuals who are already widely trusted by consumers, as credible sources, is extremely important to selling more pounds of pork. Mistrust

of information and farmers will likely always be a major obstacle for those in the agriculture industry. While the ease of social media allows organizations to reach far greater numbers than historically, it has also instilled a belief in consumers that information is no longer accurate or verifiable. Consumers will often not interact with organizations as they believe the content posted by them is overly curated to hide the truth from consumers. It is an incredibly difficult task to gain credibility on social media, and extremely easy task to lose. Partnering with credible influencers such as these food bloggers not only raises OPC’s credibility in consumers eyes but allows key-messaging to be spread further than our platforms are capable of.

Our bloggers are already hard at work for the 2022-2023 year. OPC has expanded our horizons, specifically into the TikTok platform. It is very important to reach the younger generations and TikTok is a wonderful avenue to reach them. We have already engaged with several content creators, who curate videos with OPC messaging! Keep an eye out for big things coming from the food bloggers this year, from OSU partnership videos to resuming farm and influencer tours.

AT THE OHIO STATE FAIR Ohio Pork Council

The Ohio State Fair was back this year and better than ever! Ohio Pork Council and nearly 900,000 visitors enjoyed the first real fair since 2019, and OPC has much to show for it. OPC would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this year’s fair happen — from volunteers to those who stopped by for some amazing pork! We couldn’t have done it without you!

OSF is an excellent opportunity to build influence and make meaningful connections with consumers, and here are some ways we made an impact in 2022:

• Bold messaging

From vibrant signage greeting customers at the Taste of Ohio to an excellent social media outreach, OPC’s goal was to connect consumers of pork with Ohio farm families raising pigs. Signage displayed messaging ranging from 145° to sustainability to meet the farmers. Consumers were able to see pictures and read quotes from Real Farmers while they ate Real Pork in the Taste of Ohio café. Fairgoers were able to walk past signage highlighting Ohio pig farmer’s steps towards sustainability, highlighting pork recipes and cooking techniques, and Real Pork. Real Farmers. messaging.

• Learning Opportunities

A large portion of OPC’s involvement with the Ohio State

Fair is the ability to give fairgoers an opportunity to learn about the pork industry. The Land and Living farrowing display was full of anticipation, excitement and teachable moments. Kayli and Justin showcased new interactive educational displays in both the Land of Living and with a new meat display in the swine barn. Signage at the Taste of Ohio was full of 145° messaging, visually educating about proper cooking techniques. Social media posts highlighted the messaging and actions of Ohio pig farmers, reaching whole new audiences. With the help of Ken Garee, Mr. Pig made his debut on social media, interacting directly with everyone from fairgoers to the local TV station personnel. Resulting in a combined impression count of over 265,000 impressions on OPC social media, just during the weeks of the 2022 OSF.

•

Excellent Pork Eating Experience

Hard working volunteers and members presented pork cooked to perfection every single day. Our cooking team went the extra mile to prepare delicious, wholesome protein-packed pork to all that visited. Alongside this, fairgoers were able to visit the 24th annual Pork Rib.

•

Connecting with Youth

As always, young people showed up large in the swine barn with a record number of pigs being exhibited at the 2022

OSF. It is vital for youth to understand they are part of the swine industry and to establish that the industry is a great place for future employment.

• Trusted Relationships

We want everyone to see Ohio farm families as people. From interacting with lawmakers to kids hugging Mr. Pig, OPC strives to showcase the wonderful people working in the swine industry — just real Ohio farming families raising pigs for a living.

24th Annual Pork Rib-Off Fairgoers gathered at the 24th annual Pork Rib-Off competition to watch as barbecue chefs competed for top honors in the ribs, pulled pork, and barbecue sauce categories at the Ohio State Fair on Tuesday, August 2, 2022.

“This is like heaven,” a fairgoer said, sampling pork ribs for the People’s Choice Award. “This event alone is worth the entry into the fair.”

The annual Pork Rib Off is held on the first Tuesday of the Ohio State Fair and is hosted by the Ohio Pork Council.

The NEW go-to supplement for added spread, mass and back shape that everyone is RAVING about!

HAMMER TIME™ is a proven blend of highly palatable and digestible egg and animal proteins, so it’s also great for gut health!

ASSURANCE TRAINING Pork Quality

Do you or your farm need Pork Quality Assurance Training? The Ohio Pork Council is here to help, with the addition of Education Director Kayli Mitchell, as a newly certified trainer. Kayli has been certified as an official trainer for the PQA Plus program and can assist our Ohio farms in completing their Pork Quality Assurance training.

If assistance with PQA is needed please reach out to Kayli at kmitchell@ohiopork.org.

IMPROVEMENT PLAN US Swine Health

More than 250 producers, veterinarians, swine health officials, state pork association officials and others recently met as delegates to the US Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP) meeting in Bloomington, Minnesota. The delegation discussed and passed resolutions and standards to bring more clarity and definition to the project as it works toward its goal of becoming a full USDA program designed to safeguard, certify and improve animal health.

“We’re very pleased with the great discussions and action that took place at the 2022 house of delegates meeting as we seek to move the program forward,” said Tyler Holck, DVM, US SHIP Senior Program Coordinator, Iowa State University. “We would like to see even more producers, live-animal marketers and packers across the country join their peers in participating as we seek to grow this program in the months and years ahead.” Speakers and delegates representing 31 states discussed traceability, surveillance, feed biosafety, site biosecurity and live-haul sanitation. Voting delegates approved eight resolutions for further assessment and consideration of four standards related to traceability, feed biosafety (2), live haul sanitation, surveillance (2), feral pig risk mitigation and governance. Working groups and/or pilot projects will begin in the next year for all areas with findings and recommendations to be presented at the 2023 US SHIP delegates’ meeting.

“Those who attended this meeting offered invaluable input and showed a high level of collaboration that should help make US SHIP even more successful as it moves ahead,” said Dusty Oedekoven, NPB’s chief veterinarian. “The industry needs to do everything it can to prepare for an event such as African swine fever, and this program can and should help us achieve that goal. I would urge producers to contact their official state agency and enroll in SHIP.”

Specifically on foreign animal disease, Holck said, “US SHIP aims to incorporate a number of the foreign animal disease

preparedness efforts into a singular USDA certification (ASFCSF Monitored) of US swine production premises, live animal marketing operations and slaughter facilities.”

Per US SHIP’s original intent, the plan is to mitigate risks of disease introduction and provide a practical means for demonstrating evidence of freedom of disease (outside of foreign animal disease control areas) in support of ongoing interstate commerce and a pathway towards the resumption of international trade.

“We are encouraging all segments of the US pork industry to participate in US SHIP,” Holck said. “When fully implemented, the program is designed to be applicable across the full spectrum of U.S. pork industry participants from the small show pig farmer to the large commercial producers and slaughter facilities.”

US SHIP Official State Agencies across the US began the process of enrolling sites last March. To date, approximately 40 percent of the US breeding herd and growing pigs across 31 states have enrolled in US SHIP. The pilot program is on an expedited path towards becoming a USDA program by 2024. Any interested Ohio pork producers can enroll with the Ohio Pork Council.

US SHIP has been endorsed by the National Pork Board, National Pork Producers Council, North American Meat Institute, American Association of Swine Veterinarians, United States Animal Health Association and the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians.

Oedekoven added, “As a major funding partner of US SHIP using Pork Checkoff funds, we’re encouraged to see the level of industry engagement and solidarity behind the core objectives of the plan to help improve the nation’s foreign animal disease readiness and protect our ability to maintain continuity of business in the face of a potential foreign animal disease outbreak.”

Local action, global influence: the future of pork.

Local action, global influence: the future of pork.

To our partners and friends across Ohio,

To our partners and friends across Ohio,

The future of pork production requires a constant, focused effort to protect our livelihoods.

The future of pork production requires a constant, focused effort to protect our livelihoods.

Protecting producers’ freedom to operate is what the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) does each day as the global voice for the U.S. pork industry. The success of the NPPC and affiliate state pork associations depends on the participation and shared vision of our stakeholders to secure a strong future for everyone in the pork industry.

Protecting producers’ freedom to operate is what the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) does each day as the global voice for the U.S. pork industry. The success of the NPPC and affiliate state pork associations depends on the participation and shared vision of our stakeholders to secure a strong future for everyone in the pork industry.

The Strategic Investment Program (SIP) remains the largest source of funding for NPPC and is essential for state pork organizations’ policy efforts. Forty percent of SIP funds are returned to your state organization to support grassroots efforts.

The Strategic Investment Program (SIP) remains the largest source of funding for NPPC and is essential for state pork organizations’ policy efforts. Forty percent of SIP funds are returned to your state organization to support grassroots efforts.

We are grateful for the action taken by delegates at the annual National Pork Industry Forum in March 2022. They voted to increase the SIP rate to 15 cents, from 10 cents per $100 of value for each live hog sold, effective no later than Jan. 1, 2023. The change will work in conjunction with a 5-cent reduction in the mandatory Pork Checkoff rate. This shift was one of five recommendations made by the producerled 2021 Pork Industry Visioning Task Force.

We are grateful for the action taken by delegates at the annual National Pork Industry Forum in March 2022. They voted to increase the SIP rate to 15 cents, from 10 cents per $100 of value for each live hog sold, effective no later than Jan. 1, 2023. The change will work in conjunction with a 5-cent reduction in the mandatory Pork Checkoff rate. This shift was one of five recommendations made by the producerled 2021 Pork Industry Visioning Task Force.

Challenges facing the pork industry are coming from many angles. With challenge comes opportunity. A strategically considered budget increase allows us to tackle challenges in new ways. A reliable source of revenue allows us to be more proactive in how we tackle issues in Washington, D.C., in the future and beyond.

Challenges facing the pork industry are coming from many angles. With challenge comes opportunity. A strategically considered budget increase allows us to tackle challenges in new ways. A reliable source of revenue allows us to be more proactive in how we tackle issues in Washington, D.C., in the future and beyond.

It is important to understand mandatory Pork Checkoff dollars cannot be used to influence legislative, regulatory or trade policy. NPPC and state organizations rely on SIP to represent important policy issues at the national and grassroots level.

It is important to understand mandatory Pork Checkoff dollars cannot be used to influence legislative, regulatory or trade policy. NPPC and state organizations rely on SIP to represent important policy issues at the national and grassroots level.

SIP funds allow NPP C to fight for reasonable legislation, regulation and development of export market opportunities. SIP is critical to ensure we have an aggressive voice to address these challenges and create opportunities for investors.

SIP funds allow NPP C to fight for reasonable legislation, regulation and development of export market opportunities. SIP is critical to ensure we have an aggressive voice to address these challenges and create opportunities for investors.

We want to thank current SIP investors — your involvement and support is critical to our organization.

We want to thank current SIP investors — your involvement and support is critical to our organization.

To those who are not investors, we encourage you to reach out to NPPC at invest@nppc.org or visit www.nppc.org/invest for more information. We believe you will see that an investment in SIP is a wise choice for your business.

To those who are not investors, we encourage you to reach out to NPPC at invest@nppc.org or visit www.nppc.org/invest for more information. We believe you will see that an investment in SIP is a wise choice for your business.

Respectfully yours,

Respectfully yours,

Terry Wolters NPPC President

Bryan Humphreys NPPC CEO

Terry Wolters NPPC President

Bryan Humphreys NPPC CEO

WORKS TO BUST MYTHS, GROW PORK DEMAND AND PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY National Pork Board

The National Pork Board has been active on several fronts to address misconceptions about pig farming, build demand for pork products and advance sustainability for individual pig farmers and across the industry.

Getting the real word out about pork: exclusive hotel and Luke Bryan

A Pork Checkoff-funded study revealed nearly one-third of consumers had either reduced, or planned to reduce, their consumption of pork, based in part on concerns about nutrition, safety and ethics of pig farming.1 In response, NPB is addressing misconceptions consumers have about the nutritional value of pork, as well as the way pork is raised.

In 2022, NPB worked with country music star Luke Bryan to launch what was described as “Mythbusting 2.0,” which built on the success of the 2021 Mythbusting campaign that featured Eric Stonestreet.

Raised on a family farm in rural Georgia, Bryan appreciates agriculture and knows how hard farm families work. Clearing up the misconceptions about farming is personal to him. His likable, trustworthy appeal to the meat-reducing consumer allows NPB to cast a significantly wider net and authentically deliver the Mythbusting message to those who need to hear it most.

Bryan participated in a media day in September, reaching consumers through popular outlets like People.com, E! Online, CMT Online and more. NPB produced two short promotional videos with Bryan used as digital and social ads, driving users to a main video delivering important messages about modern pig production.

The five-minute video found at pork.org/wecare features a focus group of consumers with a facilitator that metaphorically compares a modern pig farm to a five-star hotel. Participants think they are providing feedback on a state-of-the-art hotel that includes strict cleaning protocols, well-balanced diets recommended by trained experts and reusing and recycling initiatives to use less land, water and energy.

At the end of the conversation, participants realize the discussion was not about a five-star hotel, but rather the real story of what happens every day on a modern pig farm.

In addition, Bryan’s Farm Tour rural concert series was held

on farms throughout the Midwest during September, including a concert at Springfork Farms near Mechanicsburg, Ohio. As part of this year’s tour, the National Pork Board partnered with Farmland®, a brand of Smithfield Foods, to donate a truckload of pork to local foodbanks in each of the states hosting the six tour stops. Supporting people and communities in this way are just a few of the We Care® Ethical Principles pig farmers live by.

Building demand and availability of ground pork

A Pork Checkoff-funded project designed to create value for ground pork in grocery stores is helping retailers understand how to display and merchandise pork products and sharing ideas for incorporating ground pork into everyday meals.

According to Checkoff-funded research, consumer demand and interest in ground pork grew during the pandemic. In fact, about 50% of ground pork purchases came from new households during the pandemic and 9 out of 10 consumers were likely to purchase again.2

The test and learn project launched in eight states focused on increasing consistent distribution of ground pork, placing ground pork where consumers expect to find it — next to other ground meat3,and expanding the ground pork presence in the meat case. This work grew sales in the test stores by 19%4 and shifted the placement of plant-based alternatives outside of the meat case.

The program is showing results, with the First Half 2022 At-Home Meat Tracker, which was funded by Pork Checkoff, showing 30% of consumers claimed they have used ground pork at least once in the past month and 40% of all consumers claiming they LOVE/ LIKE ground pork. Among consumers that regularly use ground pork, 71% say they love or like eating it, citing taste and value for top reasons to like ground pork.

Advancing sustainability and telling our story

As consumer demand for more transparent information about their food supply and interest in sustainability continues to grow, it is more important than ever for pig farmers and the pork industry to build trust and increase the value of Real Pork by doing what’s right for people, pigs and the planet.5

Pork industry studies show that half of U.S. consumers have made modest changes in their purchasing decisions to be more sustainable -- over 60% want to know more about the “who, what, where and how” behind their food. And 90% of

consumers make food purchases based on what is better for either themselves/their family, the farmer/worker, the animal or the planet.

In 2021, NPB released its first Industry Sustainability Report showing how producer-developed goals aligned with We Care Ethical Principles. Each goal has specific reporting metrics and mechanisms in place to help individual farms – and, in turn, the entire industry – securely measure and report progress.

The Checkoff-funded on-farm sustainability reports, which provide confidential farm-level data, help pork producers establish their own baselines for social, environmental and economic sustainability. The reports are maintained by a thirdparty to assure privacy, and now include a Carbon Footprint Calculator. The We Care app syncs with data programs to provide valuable information back to each individual operation/ producer. NPB is encouraging all producers to request their own report on porkcheckoff.org.

In addition to providing valuable data for farmers to improve the sustainability and bottom line of their farms, anonymous data from the reports can be aggregated to demonstrate pork producers’ commitment to sustainability and build consumer trust. Through October 25, 2022, the completed We Care

Sustainability Reports showed a total savings of $8.6 million with reduced need for commercial nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, as well as significant reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and saving more than 99,000 tons of soil from being lost to erosion.*

Finally, three USDA climate-smart grants received by NPB and partners will aid producers in implementing climate-smart practices. Details for all the climate-smart grant programs are being finalized and will roll out soon. By sharing these improvements, the industry can further tell the sustainability story of U.S. pork, through both the pig and the feed it consumes.

*Based on 151 pork producer reports within the National Pork Board for the 2021 growing season and calendar year, collected and analyzed through October 25, 2022

1Pork Checkoff-funded Barriers Tracking Research, Consumer Online Poll, conducted by PSB, Wave 7, May 2021

2National Pork Board Ground Omnibus Survey conducted by Numerator May 2020

3NPB Custom Survey & Prediction Market Study In Field Dec 30th, 2020 – Jan 4th, 2021

4Pork Checkoff-funded IRI Control Store Test, July – Nov 2021

5Power of Meat, 2022

ADVERTISERS Index to

DNA Genetics Page 7

National Pork Board Page 11

Ag Credit Page 13

Acuilty Fastgenetics Page 15

Pig Tex Page 15

United Animal Health Page 17

Hubbard Page 18 PIC Page 19 Hog Slat Page 20

Barn Talk Page 21

Farmer Boy Page 23

Hammer Time Page 30

Alltech Page 31

Topigs Norsvin Page 32

National Pork Producers Council Page 34 National Pork Producers Council Page 35 QC Supply Page 37

NOODLE SOUP Pork Chop 13 2 INGREDIENTS HOURS

INGREDIENTS

3 bone-in pork chops (3/4-inch thick cut)

salt pepper

2 Tbsp. vegetable oil

2 cups chicken broth (or pork stock)

4 cups vegetable broth (unsalted)

1 red onion (diced)

4 carrots (diced)

2 cloves garlic (crushed)

1 tsp. dried thyme

1/2 tsp. dried basil

1 cup rotini pasta

2 stalks celery (diced)

DIRECTIONS

STEP 1

Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chops and cook for about 4 minutes, until golden brown. Flip and cook 4 minutes more, until golden brown. Transfer chops to a plate and set aside.

STEP 2

Pour half of chicken broth into pot, scraping all browned bits from bottom. Add remaining chicken broth, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery and garlic. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Add 1 quart water, thyme, basil, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Add chops back to pot and return to simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally, being careful not to break up chops.

STEP 3

Transfer chops to plate, trying not to break them up. Set aside to cool. Raise the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Add pasta and cook for about 12 minutes, until tender. When the chops are cool, pull them apart, discarding all the bones and fat. Add the meat back to soup and stir well. Taste for salt and pepper, and add if needed, before serving.