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Indiana Pork Helps Science Teachers Connect Classrooms with Modern Pork Production

Indiana Pork recently partnered with Fair Oaks Farms to support agricultural education by sponsoring the Nourish the Future Conference, providing science teachers with firsthand exposure to modern pork production and the tools to bring those experiences back to their classrooms.

Held at Fair Oaks Farms, the conference brought together 35 science educators for an immersive learning experience focused on agriculture, food production, sustainability, and science-based education.

Building Understanding Through Experience
One of the conference’s highlights was the Pig Adventure tour, where teachers had the opportunity to see modern pork production firsthand and ask questions directly to industry professionals.

During the tour, Indiana Pork staff member Jeanette Merritt described a memorable interaction with one educator from Crown Point who asked about the difference between a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) and the barn they were touring.

When Merritt explained that the facility they were visiting was, in fact, a CAFO, the teacher was surprised.

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Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

Video: Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger


In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, explains how genetics can improve disease resilience in pigs. She explores how resilience differs from resistance, the role of genetic variation, and how breeding strategies can enhance health and performance under disease pressure. Dr. Dunkelberger also covers practical applications and future implications for swine production. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Controlled experimental trials confirm that differences in mortality and performance under disease pressure are linked to genetic background, even when environmental conditions remain consistent."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger / jenelle-dunkelberger-9200ab86 is a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she leads the Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. She earned her PhD from Iowa State University, focusing on host genetics and disease response in pigs. Her work centers on improving swine health and performance through genetic selection for resilience and behavior traits.