The 2024 Iowa Pork Congress, North America’s largest winter swine trade show, takes place on Jan. 24 and 25 at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. It will be the 51st annual event, with more than 4,500 attendees, hundreds of vendors, and multiple educational sessions. Iowa Pork Congress is organized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), whose annual meeting convenes at 10 a.m. on January 23.
“While this has been an exceptionally challenging year in our industry due to the Supreme Court decision regarding Proposition 12 and the tough economics of raising pigs, it is always great to join together as pig farmers to discuss what we love to do most: raise pigs,” said IPPA President Trish Cook, a pig farmer from Winthrop. “I encourage everyone connected to the swine industry to make room in your schedule to attend the 2024 Iowa Pork Congress!”
In addition to the great networking opportunities and expansive trade show, the Iowa Pork Congress includes educational sessions, with keynote presentations each day. On Wednesday, Jan. 23, award-winning international speaker Steve Lerch, a former Google executive, offers insight on understanding and influencing modern consumers.
The Wednesday seminars will cover the economic outlook for the pork industry, export market highlights, DNR and EPA compliance, and the future of traceability. There will also be certification training for both Pork Quality Assurance and Transport Quality Assurance. Wednesday’s schedule concludes with the annual Master Pork Producer Awards banquet.
On Thursday, Jan. 25, Michele Payn, one of North America’s leading experts in connecting farm and food, will discuss mental health and resiliency in the agriculture industry. Other educational sessions on Jan. 25 include panel discussions on swine diseases and labor issues.
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