Financial Challenges Hit Prominent Iowa Pork Producer, JWV Pork

Oct 02, 2023

JWV Pork, a well-established four-generation hog farm based in Washington, Iowa, is facing financial distress, defaulting on over $38.8 million of debt, as revealed in court records. The company, a major player in Iowa’s pork industry, has experienced significant success under the co-ownership of Jerome and Heidi Vittetoe since the early ’80s.

According to legal documents filed in the Iowa District Court in Linn County, JWV Pork failed to make timely payments on loans from Farm Credit Services dating between 2016 and 2022. This default has resulted in a total outstanding indebtedness of $38.8 million for JWV Pork, JWV Milling, Savanna Pork, Vittetoe Enterprises, and J & H Legacy Farms, as of August 10.

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Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.