Posted May 4, 2012
The Iowa Pork Producers Association is requesting nominations from producers for the 2012 Master Pork Producer and Environmental Steward awards.
Nomination forms and instructions for both award programs can be accessed at iowapork.org or by contacting IPPA. Nominations must be postmarked by August 1 for consideration.
The Iowa Master Pork Producer Award program began in 1942 and is a joint effort between IPPA and Iowa State University Extension to recognize those Iowa pork producers showing expertise in their segment of the production cycle, understanding current industry issues and demonstrating the ethical principles of pork production as outlined in the We Care responsible pork initiative.
The Iowa Environmental Steward Award recognizes producers who go above and beyond in environmental stewardship. Applicants are reviewed in the areas of soil and water conservation, air quality, community and neighbor relations, wildlife habitat and other production innovations.
Both award programs follow the core principles of the pork industry’s We Care responsible pork initiative to produce safe food, protect and promote animal well-being, protect public health, safeguard natural resources, provide a safe work environment and contribute to a better quality of life in our communities.
All award recipients will be recognized in January at the 2013 Iowa Pork Congress and be highlighted in IPPA publications and at industry events. The Environmental Steward Award recipient will receive $1,000 cash and be nominated for the National Pork Industry Environmental Steward Award, sponsored by the National Pork Board andNational Hog Farmer.
“Iowa’s pork producers represent some of the most efficient, innovative and adaptive in the industry,” said Tyler Bettin, IPPA producer education director. “It is important that we continue to recognize the efforts of our best and brightest producers. Doing this helps show consumers our commitment to the environment and production of safe food while also educating other producers on best management practices and industry opportunities.”
For additional information regarding Master Pork Producer and Environmental Steward award programs, please contact Tyler Bettin at (800) 372-7675 or tbettin@iowapork.org.