Visionary Honored by NPB and NPPC with Paulson-Whitmore Award

Mar 20, 2023

Mike Telford Recognized for Charting New Courses for Iowa Pig Farmers

Mike Telford’s 20 years at Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) were filled with stories of overcoming adversities through preparation and working to bring about the best opportunities for pig farmers and pork production.

At the 2023 Pork Forum, Telford was recognized with the Paulson-Whitmore Award by National Pork Board (NPB) and the National Pork Producer’s Council (NPPC). The award recognizes the achievements and contributions of state pork association leaders to their states and the pork industry as a whole.

Preparing for the Future

Telford’s tenure with IPPA began in 1978 when he was only 24 years old. During his nearly twenty years as state executive director, Telford led the organization through challenging years in agriculture and major changes in the pork industry.

Under his leadership, Iowa led the nation in establishing a mandatory Pork Checkoff. For this and other accomplishments, Telford is quick to deflect any of the credit for the accomplishments of IPPA to his producers.

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Video: Sow Welfare and Group Housing Systems - Dr. Laya Alves

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Laya Alves from the University of São Paulo, in Brazil, discusses how animal welfare regulations are evolving globally and their impact on pig production systems. She explains challenges in group housing, pain management, and euthanasia decisions, while highlighting the role of training and management in improving outcomes and economic sustainability. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Translating welfare requirements into daily farm routines without compromising economic sustainability remains one of the biggest challenges faced by producers globally today."

Meet the guest: Dr. Laya Alves / laya-kannan is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of São Paulo, Brazil, focusing on animal welfare in pig production, including pain management, euthanasia, and economic decision making. Her work integrates welfare science with practical farm management and sustainability. She collaborates globally to develop applied tools for producers.