Farm Bureau unveils 12th advocacy leadership class

May 06, 2024

By Farms.com

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has introduced its 12th Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) class, continuing its mission to cultivate leaders skilled in advocating for agriculture. This initiative is part of AFBF’s ongoing effort to strengthen the voice of agriculture at all levels of government and society.

This year’s class features ten distinguished leaders from states like California, Minnesota, and Missouri, all selected for their leadership qualities and dedication to advancing agricultural interests. Members include Jen Beretta from California and Chris Riley from Utah, among others.

The PAL program is structured around four dynamic learning modules that span two years. These modules are designed to equip participants with the skills necessary for effective advocacy, covering legislative policy, issues management, and communication strategies, including social media and media relations.

Training under the PAL program is rigorous and interactive, focusing on real-world applications of advocacy strategies. It is supported by notable agricultural organizations like Syngenta and Farm Credit, which contribute to the development and success of the program.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall highlighted the critical role of advocacy in promoting agricultural issues that benefit not only farmers but also the entire farm-to-consumer food chain. Graduates of the PAL program is expected to lead efforts in their communities to influence policies and practices that favor a thriving agricultural sector.

Video: What Does 20 MILLION Hogs a Year Look Like?

?? The Multi-Plant System Processing 20 Million Hogs Annually in the Midwest JBS USA operates multiple large-scale pork processing facilities across the Midwest, including major plants in Iowa, Minnesota, and Indiana. Combined, these facilities have the capacity to process approximately 20 million hogs annually.

Each plant operates high-speed automated slaughter systems capable of processing up to 20,000 head per day, followed by fabrication lines that break carcasses into primals, sub-primals, and case-ready retail products.

Hog procurement is coordinated through electronic marketing platforms that connect regional contract finishing operations and independent producers to plant demand schedules. This digital procurement system allows for steady supply flow and scheduling efficiency across multiple facilities.

Processing plants incorporate comprehensive food safety systems, including pathogen intervention technologies, rapid chilling processes, and integrated cold-chain management. USDA inspection is embedded throughout the harvest and fabrication stages to ensure regulatory compliance and product integrity. Finished pork products — from bulk primals to retail-ready packaged cuts — are distributed through coordinated logistics networks serving domestic and export markets.