Upcoming Conference: Successful Niche Pork Herd Health

November 30, 2005 — Practical Farmers of Iowa

A workshop on Successful Niche Pork Herd Health and Production Management will be part of the Practical Farmers of Iowa 2006 annual conference, to be held in Des Moines on January 13 and 14. AASV member Dr. Kurt Van Hulzen and ISU Extension Swine Field Specialist Dave Stender will present the workshop on Friday, January 13, from 12:30 - 4:30 pm at the Des Moines Airport Holiday Inn.

The in-depth workshop will focus on production topics for niche pork farmers. What are the most important factors influencing financial success for sustainable swine operations? What are key day-to-day management techniques that help assure profits? How should farmers approach small-herd disease and parasite cleanup plans for different diseases and parasites? What are the critical management steps needed to increase the odds of keeping the herd clean? The workshop will also review several winter farrowing building designs developed by niche pork farmers.

The workshop is just part of this year's Practical Farmers of Iowa annual conference, which will focus on the needs of a new generation of farmers committed to sustainable agriculture - whether they are starting out fresh or transitioning to new practices and markets. A keynote panel and full track of workshops will focus on the subject. Don't miss the live music and dancing, the famous All-Iowa Meal, and presentation of the 2006 Sustainable Ag Achievement Award. For more information and registration materials, go to http://www.practicalfarmers.org or call 515-232-5661.