Nominations open for pork awards

   It’s time to nominate those Iowans in the pork industry who best represent the qualities for Master Pork Producer, Master Pork Partner and the Environmental Steward.

   The submission deadline is Aug. 1. Nomination forms for Master Pork Producers and Pork Partner can be found online at www.iowapork.org/producer-resources/master-pork-producer-nominations/. The nomination for the Environmental Steward award is at www.iowapork.org/producer-resources/environmental-steward-nominations/. Nomination forms are also available through the IPPA office at 800-372-7675.

   The Master Pork Awards program began in 1942 to help stimulate pork and lard production in support of World War II efforts to keep Americans fed. While program standards have changed over the years, the awards still promote diversity, efficiency and excellence in pork production. The program has honored 1,499 Iowa pig farmers since its inception, and 15 farm families have received the Environmental Steward Award.

   Criteria for the Master Pork Producer award include food safety, animal well-being, employee safety and health, and more.

   There are three categories for the Master Pork Partner awards: Veterinarian of the Year, Truck Driver of the Year, and those who support working in the barns or in on-farm jobs.

   Criteria for the Environmental Steward award include manure/nutrient management, soil and water conservation, air quality, public relations, wildlife habitat, and environmental management innovations.

   All award-winners will be honored at the January 2023 Iowa Pork Congress in Des Moines.

   The Master Pork awards are a joint effort of the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.