Lt. Governor Skillman and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Thursday recognized Pete Eshelman of Heritage Farms, a Whitley County livestock producer, who recently completed the voluntary ISDA Certified Livestock Producer Program.
"Our Indiana livestock and poultry producers' personal values embody integrity, responsibility and accountability," said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. "These values and more are required to complete this program. I congratulate Pete who now joins other exceptional producers who have demonstrated their commitment to these values through using progressive practices and procedures."
To be recognized by ISDA as a Certified Livestock Producer, participants must complete the highest industry standards in environmental protection, animal health, bio-security, emergency planning and good neighbor relations. They also agree to sign the Producer Promise, committing to meet or exceed the high standards of the Certified Livestock Producer Program as a commitment to the citizens of the State of Indiana.
Lt. Governor Skillman launched the Certified Livestock Producer Program in July 2008. Since that time, 25 Hoosier farmers have earned the certification. Indiana is one of only a handful of states to have a voluntary program that recognizes farmers for their commitment to innovative and top industry standards.
Heritage Farms has been a diverse farm operation in Whitley County for more than 23 years specializing in Wagyu beef. Eshelman runs this family farm with his wife Alice and their children, as well as Farm Manager John Pulver.
“We commend Pete for being a leader and spokesperson for his industry,” said Indiana Agriculture Director Joe Kelsay. “We believe this program will continue to serve as an invaluable tool to increase awareness of Indiana livestock producers’ commitment to provide high-quality and wholesome food.”
Source : hoosieragtoday.com