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MU Extension Available to Assist Dairy Producers With MDA Grant

University of Missouri Extension dairy specialist Chloe Collins urges dairy producers to apply for the Dairy Producer Margin Enhancement Initiative Grant through the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

Collins serves dairy producers in Christian, Douglas, Howell, Ozark, Taney, Texas, Webster and Wright counties. She is available by appointment for phone consultations and farm visits to help producers brainstorm project ideas and review draft applications.

This competitive grant program provides up to $40,000 per project, covering 75% of eligible expenses to help Grade A dairies improve efficiency, expand operations and invest in herd and facility upgrades. Eligible projects include equipment purchases, facility improvements, herd expansion and advanced breeding technologies. A 25% cash match is required.

Applications are due by 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov.19, and will be evaluated based on feasibility, impact and readiness.

Source : missouri.edu

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How AI Is Changing Family Hog Farms | Duane Stateler on Technology & the Future of Pork Production

Video: How AI Is Changing Family Hog Farms | Duane Stateler on Technology & the Future of Pork Production

Artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape pork production, and longtime pork producer Duane Stateler believes the industry is only getting started.

Recorded at World Pork Expo 2026, Stateler shares how technology has already transformed modern hog farming—from automated barn climate control and feed monitoring to real-time alerts—and explains why AI will play an even bigger role in improving animal care, efficiency, and decision-making.

As a fifth-generation hog farmer, he also discusses the importance of family farms, succession planning, labor, and how technology is helping today's producers care for more animals while maintaining high welfare standards.

In this interview:

The future of AI in pork production

How smart barns improve pig care

Feed bin monitoring and automation

Labor challenges and family farming

Why technology is shaping the next generation of producers