Education

New research: adopting PRRS-resistant pigs offers meaningful benefits with minimal trade-offs

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:21:31 GMT

In April 2025, PIC was granted approval by the FDA for the gene edit used in its PRRS-resistant pig, an extraordinary step forward in eliminating challenges from one of the most serious global pig diseases.

Now, research published in the August 2025 American Journal of Veterinary Research has revealed a model of potential global economic and market impacts associated with adoption of this new technology.¹

PIC commissioned Dr. Jayson Lusk, Vice President and Dean of Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and Regents Professor to develop the economic model used in the research.

Since 2000, Lusk has published more than 280 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Much of this research was focused on consumer demand, how consumers respond to new technologies and food products, how demand translates through the agricultural supply chain, and, ultimately, how these changes impact farmers.

Dr. Lusk’s economic model answers questions about the PRRS-resistant pig

The potential of pigs resistant to PRRS, a disease endemic to the global pork industry, could be significant. The question becomes, what will happen when the technology is available to breeding herds? How will it impact pork production and prices? What does it mean for farmers and consumers?

Lusk’s research constructed an economic model to find out.

“The model linked the supply of market hogs on the one end to demand for pork by consumers on the other end, and it does that in a way that also links global trade,” says Lusk. “So, you have our major pork producers in countries like the U.S., China, Canada and other parts throughout the world and links those to each other in terms of global trading patterns.”

Industry impact: Potential increased profit per head as a result of adopting the PRRS-resistant pig

The model allowed Lusk to evaluate different technology adoption rates.

“What we’re able to do is say, ‘if we had 5% adoption, 10% adoption, 100% adoption of PRRS-resistant pigs, what would happen?’” says Lusk. “The overarching story is that as adoption increases, pork production increases and pork prices fall.”

But that doesn’t mean bad news for pork producers, according to Lusk.

“The important thing to note is that costs fall more than prices fall,” adds Lusk. “So, you’re able to sell more pork at a lower cost, and the result is those people that adopt PRRS-resistant pigs are more profitable.”

Production and price shifts also increase U.S. exports.Ultimately, more pigs and pork produced at a positive margin can increase total industry profit, according to Lusk’s model.

Consumer impact: More, affordable pork

“The main benefit of eliminating PRRS that consumers could see directly is lower food prices,” says Lusk.

According to Lusk and his model, by eliminating or reducing PRRS, consumers could also enjoy indirect benefits like improved animal welfare and reduced antibiotic usage², which have been identified as important to consumers.

Other animal and plant proteins will no doubt seek their own novel innovations to increase future productivity and vie for a spot on the consumer’s dinner plate. In fact, there are more than 500 gene-edited crops either available for sale or in development ^.3

“As a pork industry, innovating now for higher productivity will help maintain pork’s spot and industry profitability,” says Lusk.

Adoption of PRRS-resistant pigs can be a net-positive even if demand dips slightly

Lusk’s model notes that even if consumers reduce their willingness to pay for pork in response to this technology’s adoption, it will take a “really large” reduction to offset productivity gains. Likewise, Lusk notes, that if global trade patterns changed (ie, a country decides not to import pork from a country using this technology), productivity gains would likely remain a net positive for U.S. industry profitability, per the research.

“If pork is the most consumed protein 10 to 20 years from now, it’s because this technology was adopted,” says Lusk.

More information on Dr. Lusk’s research can be found here on the PRRS-resistant pig website .

Sources:

Lusk, JL. “Global adoption of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome-resistant pigs will have significant economic and market impacts.” American Journal of Veterinary Research. August 2025. https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/86/11/ajvr.25.05.0188.xml
Machado, Isadora Fernanda. Assessment of changes in antibiotic use in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in a naïve farrow-to-finish system. Dec. 2023. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167587724002368?via%3Dihub
S&P Global. Gene-edited crops market growth spurred by regulatory progress and approvals. Jan. 2023. Accessed November, 2025. https://www.spglobal.com/commodity-insights/en/research-analytics/gene-edited-crops-market-growth-spurred-by-regulatory-progress

Moving More Pork, One Dish at a Time

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:54:03 GMT

When the National Pork Board (NPB) launched the Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign last year, the goal was simple: Get more Americans to eat more pork more often.

And, for the past year, we’ve been working hard to do just that. We’ve reviewed data to determine if marketing dollars are making a difference and have taken steps to develop a new economic tool — the Pork Power Index — to evaluate the campaign and demonstrate producer return. But perhaps the most promising numbers are those that show movement — and opportunity — in the meatcase.

Because we’re ready to turn opportunity into increased demand for producers.

Opportunity Is Knocking

One of the easiest proteins to incorporate into the diet is ground meat. Playing a dual role, ground meat can be the main course in burgers or meatloaf, but it can also be a team player as a versatile ingredient in dishes like chili, pasta sauces or cultural favorites like tacos.

Ground pork is an opportunity aligning with the Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign.

NPB has focused the campaign on millennial and Gen Z consumers to build long-term demand. In fact, millennial and Gen Z shoppers accounted for 67% of all unit growth in the meatcase in 2025.

But what does that have to do with ground pork?

First and foremost, Gen Z shoppers are spending more dollars per trip on ground pork than any other generation. What’s more, the days between purchases of ground pork are fewer for both millennial and Gen Z shoppers.

On the retail side, ground pork volume is outpacing fresh and total pork, and there has been an 18% growth in 90/10 ground pork. In the long run, that turns into increased demand and increased value for producers.

Strike While the Iron is Hot

Of course, growth doesn’t necessarily equal success, or at least sustained success. However, we’ve seen ground pork volume increase, and it’s primed for continued growth as consumers seek taste, flavor, versatility and a balanced diet. We know that millennials are the most health-conscious generation, and 55% of protein-aware consumers prefer to source protein through whole foods like meat and dairy. Ground pork delivers what consumers are looking for.

Data also shows that adding variations to ground pork drives significant category growth. And, with millennial and Gen Z shoppers spending nearly $5 more per year on ground meat than average shoppers, additional ground pork SKUs could be an opportunity.

Retail Partnerships are Key

To execute on the opportunity, NPB is working with retail partners to add ground pork items to store shelves. Along with in-store and digital retail activations, NPB’s Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign has a year-round focus on ground pork.

Ads focusing on the flavor, versatility and affordability of ground pork hit websites, mobile applications and in-store advertising to pique millennial and Gen Z consumers’ established interest in cultural dishes while capitalizing on seasonal ground meat sales spikes like summer grilling season and winter holidays.

One of our retail partners, Fareway® Stores, Inc., is working with the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and the National Pork Board to bring additional awareness to the versatility of ground pork. Fareway recently launched a Boston Butt Pork Burger in all store locations in seven states. These burgers are made from fresh, in-store ground boneless pork butts and formed into 6 oz patties. Fareway will be promoting the new item throughout the summer grilling season and into fall tailgating season with in-store signage, social media, email and influencer content. IPPA is supporting Fareway’s work with social media for both IPPA and Fareway.

Retail Opportunity, Producer Demand Driver

Three years ago, NPB set a goal of growing ground pork sales to $300 million by 2029. Ground pork sales have grown steadily since then, and we’re actively partnering with retailers to capture the remaining $80 million opportunity.

With the help of retailers and the ongoing work of the Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign, we’re knocking on the door of reaching ground pork’s full potential, meeting the needs of the consumer, bringing opportunity to retailers and driving demand for producers.

Visit porkcheckoff.org/flavor to see how the research-backed Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign is introducing more Americans to ground pork.

Sarah Showalter, director of consumer and business insights, NPB

Sarah Showalter is the director of consumer and business insights for the National Pork Board. She implements consumer-focused, producer-led strategy by leading qualitative and quantitative research to answer business questions and identify opportunities.

Prior to her role at NPB, Showalter attended Iowa State University and has experience in developing strategic insights through research at Circana (formerly IRI), Conagra Brands and Hallmark Cards, Inc.

Cleaning: Surface Preparation is Critical prior to Disinfection

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:02:21 GMT

With biosecurity being at the forefront of a successful swine operation, detergents are necessary to establish a clean surface in preparation for disinfection. An effective disinfectant must come into direct contact with the pathogen of concern for inactivation to occur which mitigates the risk of disease transmission. Therefore, the removal of all organic and inorganic material prior to disinfection remains a critical step to optimizing the efficacy of disinfectants in eliminating infectious disease. It only takes the slightest amount of organic material on a contaminated surface to harbor an infectious agent that could serve as the source of a catastrophic disease outbreak. The cleaning process must be designed to address all areas of potential contamination to include various surfaces, materials, and equipment for effective results. Let’s take a closer look at the important features for selection and application of an appropriate cleaner.

It is important to carefully consider the selection of appropriate chemistries for utilization in the cleaning process. Detergent products designed and formulated specifically to clean surfaces without any claims to destroy pathogens are not registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, it is necessary to clarify that during the cleaning process, detergents have the capability to remove up to 90% of pathogens present, but inactivation does not occur. Acidic cleaners are effective for alternating pH programs in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles to remove mineral scale, detergent residues, and other elements that remain after repeated use of alkaline cleaners. Implementing a rotation between an alkaline cleaner and an acidic cleaner will assist in maximizing surface cleanliness for best results with disinfection. A typical cleaner rotation will utilize an alkaline chemistry 66% to 75% of the time and an acidic chemistry 25% to 33% of the time. Acidic cleaner chemistries with active ingredients such as phosphoric acid or hydrochloric acid have a pH below 7. Alkaline cleaners are effective for the removal of fats, proteins, grease, feces, and other biological material that may contribute to biofilm formation in swine barns and on equipment and transport vehicles. Alkaline cleaner chemistries with active ingredients such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide have a pH above 7. Alkaline cleaners are available in both chlorinated and non-chlorinated formulations.

Additional features to consider in the selection of an appropriate cleaner are foaming capability and corrosivity as well as the surfactants and chelating agents present within the formulation. Foaming capability is important for contact time especially on vertical surfaces and for application coverage. Selecting a non-corrosive formulation is important for longevity of equipment and facilities to prevent maintenance concerns. The surfactants present within a formulation lower the surface tension of water which provides a greater ability to wet surfaces during the cleaning process leading to better penetration, suspension, and removal of dirt and debris. Chelating agents present within a formulation neutralize hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium to stabilize the chemistry to maintain effectiveness during the cleaning process. Detergents improve the efficiency of the cleaning process which can result in savings in both labor and water usage.

The cleaning process begins with an initial water spray down to remove the loose organic and inorganic material present on all surfaces. Next, utilize properly calibrated foaming equipment to apply a selected cleaner at the appropriate concentration and follow the recommended contact time in accordance with the product label. Recommended contact times typically range from 10 minutes to one hour. The use dilution and contact time for a cleaner can be dependent upon the level of contamination. Ensure adequate coverage of all surfaces to allow the cleaner to penetrate, suspend, and remove dirt and debris. Complete a thorough water rinse on all surfaces to remove the detergent and any remaining contamination. Visibly observe surfaces to detect any areas that may require further attention through manual cleaning to achieve cleanliness. Finally, it is important that all newly cleaned surfaces are relatively dry prior to disinfection to prevent the over dilution of the disinfectant.

With the ever-evolving disease challenges facing the swine industry, it is quite evident the impact that the proper selection and implementation of chemistry and cleaning procedures prior to disinfection can have on the success of your biosecurity program in maintaining a healthy herd. Dedicating the necessary attention to this critical cleaning step will pay dividends. Contact Kersia a trusted industry partner, for additional information and to discuss solutions that meet your individual needs.

Barnstorm and Farm-Foam EVO Cleaners from Kersia USA

(Kersia USA)

When Good Employees Create Hard Decisions

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:41:09 GMT

You notice a good employee starting to show up late a few mornings in a row, or someone who is usually steady seems distracted and not quite themselves. Nothing is clearly wrong, but enough has changed that you know something is going on, and you’re not sure what to do next.

Do you have a conversation with them?
Do you start handing out consequences?
Or is this something more serious that could eventually lead to letting them go?

This is the kind of situation management coach Don Taylor calls an ethical dilemma.

“An ethical dilemma is when you’re trying to make a call between two or more options, and none of them feel clearly right or clearly wrong from an ethics standpoint,” Taylor said during a Professional Dairy Producers podcast.

This is not a black-and-white situation. Taylor notes that when someone clearly crosses the line, the decision is usually straightforward.

“There are some situations where someone clearly crosses the line, and we know right away it’s an immediate termination,” Taylor says. “Those cases are straightforward. That’s not what we’re talking about here.”

More often, these situations involve good employees when something in their life changes and it is not clear what is going on or how to respond. In those moments, farm leaders are balancing two things: supporting the person while protecting the operation.

Recognize When Something is Off

The first step is recognizing you are dealing with an ethical dilemma in the first place. In many cases, it starts with a gut check.

“Sometimes it’s just a gut feeling that something is off. It doesn’t feel right, and it’s not what you expect from that person,” Taylor says. “In those moments, it really tests your judgment and how you handle people.”

When something does not fit normal patterns or expectations, it usually means you need to pause and get more information before making a decision.

Focus on Facts, Not Assumptions

Once a concern is identified, it’s time to gather information. This starts with making sure decisions are not driven by bias or incomplete observations.

“We want to make sure personal blind spots or biases are not getting in the way. The goal is to gather as much accurate information as we can,” Taylor says.

This often means separating what is known from what is assumed and keeping conversations focused on what can be seen or verified, not opinions.

“We’re going to focus on the facts. If someone starts adding opinions, we’ll steer the conversation back to what we actually know,” Taylor says.

Listen Before Deciding

After information is gathered, the next step is to continue the conversation with the employee.

“Tell your employee, ‘I’m just curious, can you share anything else with me about what’s going on? Whatever is going on in your life is affecting your work, and I have an obligation to understand what that is,” Taylor says.

He emphasizes that in many of these situations, there is often more going on than what you see at first. Taking the time to listen helps you understand the full picture. That way, you are making a decision based on what is really happening, not just what it looks like on the surface.

“When we’re actively listening, we are taking ourselves completely out of the equation,” Taylor says. “All that we’re doing is processing information.”

Use Policy as a Guide

After understanding the situation, leaders should review company policies and past practices. Consistency is important, but rigid rules do not always account for real life circumstances.

Taylor cautions against overly strict approaches in areas where situations can vary significantly.

“I’m not a big fan of zero tolerance policies for this exact reason. If it’s zero tolerance, it’s zero tolerance,” Taylor says.

Instead, he recommends building in room for judgment.

“Unique situations should be handled on a case-by-case basis by the owner,” Taylor says.

That flexibility allows leaders to respond fairly while still staying aligned with the operation’s expectations.

Think Through the Options

With the facts and policies in mind, the next step is to step back and look at your options. Taylor refers to this as using “moral imagination.”

“We have to be creative, thinking up alternative options that are based on our core values, that are based on what we feel is simply the best thing to do in this situation,” Taylor says.

In practice, this means not jumping to the first or easiest answer. It might not be as simple as discipline or doing nothing. There may be a middle ground, like adjusting schedules, setting clear expectations, or putting a short-term plan in place while you learn more.

It also means thinking through how each option affects the rest of the team. Will others see the decision as fair? Will it create more work or tension? At the same time, consider what the employee needs and whether the decision gives them a realistic chance to improve.

At the end of the day, you need to pick an option you can stand behind. One that fits how you run your operation and how you expect people to be treated every day.

If You Miss it, Adjust

Not every situation is going to be handled perfectly, and that is part of working through these kinds of decisions. Taylor says what matters is being willing to look back, learn from it and make adjustments going forward.

“We own it. It’s our responsibility. We made the decision we admit that we could have done better,” Taylor says.

In the end, these situations come down to how you lead people day to day. Taking the time to understand what is going on, working through your options and being willing to adjust when needed helps build trust with your team and keeps the operation moving forward.

10 Leadership Habits That Make Employees Want to Stay

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:01:34 GMT

Hiring good employees is only half the battle. Keeping them engaged, motivated and committed to the job often depends on the relationship they have with their employer. Pay matters, but day-to-day interactions, clear communication and trust can have just as much influence on whether employees stay and perform at a high level.

Management and leadership expert Bob Milligan says supervisors who focus on strengthening relationships with their teams often see gains in productivity, motivation and long-term employee retention.

“We focus on improving our relationship and mutual trust with family and friends,” Milligan says. “It is easy to forget that the supervisor-employee relationship is also an interpersonal relationship.”

He outlines 10 practical strategies farm leaders can use to build stronger, more effective workplaces.

1. Practice Active Listening

When people think about communication, they often think about speaking. Milligan says listening is just as important, particularly for employers.

“Active listening means you are listening with all your senses,” he explains. “You are listening to understand both the message that is being delivered and the underlying emotions.”

Because farm leaders hold a position of authority, employees may hesitate to speak openly. Failing to listen can send the message that their input is not valued.

2. Ask Questions

Employees are more likely to share ideas and concerns when they are invited into the conversation.

“The best way to involve them is to ask questions,” Milligan says.

Two simple questions he recommends asking regularly are: ‘What is going well?’ and ‘What could be going better?’

These prompts help employees reflect on their work and provide constructive feedback.

3. Encourage Employees to Share More

Even when employees begin sharing their thoughts, they may stop before fully explaining their perspective.

“To be certain you have everything, ask ‘tell me more’ or another variation ‘and what else,’” Milligan explains. “I have found this question almost always yields additional valuable information.”

This approach signals genuine interest and helps managers better understand the full situation.

4. Circle Back After Important Conversations

After meaningful or emotional discussions, a quick follow-up can reinforce trust.

“In these situations, it is good to circle back in a day or two to check in,” Milligan says.

The purpose isn’t to restart the conversation but to see if the employee has additional thoughts or unresolved concerns.

5. Strengthen Employee Decision-Making

When employees ask how to complete a task, supervisors often provide a quick answer. Milligan suggests using these moments as opportunities for development.

Ask the employee how they would handle the situation.

“You are providing an opportunity to think, which improves decision making,” he says. “The other big advantage is that next time the employee may not have to come to you.”

6. Introduce New Responsibilities in Small Steps

Employees often want to grow in their roles but may hesitate to take on more responsibility because they fear failure.

“Research into human behavior shows that part of human nature is to grow,” Milligan explains.

To reduce that fear, he recommends introducing new responsibilities gradually.

“You cannot get to Z without going through A, B, C, D, E, and F,” he says.

Breaking responsibilities into manageable steps allows employees to build confidence as they develop new skills.

7. Be Transparent About Follow-up

Some supervisors avoid checking in after training or feedback because they worry it will feel like micromanaging. Milligan recommends setting expectations ahead of time.

“To avoid this concern, inform the employee in advance that you will be following up to answer questions or provide anything else they need,” he says.

When employees expect follow-up, it becomes a supportive step rather than unwanted oversight.

8. Set Clear Expectations

Unclear expectations can quickly create frustration and damage trust.

“Think about a time when you were unclear about what was being expected of you,” Milligan says. “I suspect you were frustrated and potentially lost trust with the person not providing clarity.”

Clearly outlining expectations for behavior and performance helps employees understand their roles and responsibilities.

9. Provide Quality Feedback

Effective supervisors use three types of feedback: positive, redirection and negative.

“High quality, specific positive feedback enhances the employee’s confidence and desire to continue to excel,” Milligan explains.

Redirection feedback helps employees learn and improve, while negative feedback should be used sparingly and framed around choices and consequences rather than reprimands.

10. Lead by Example

The final tip focuses on actions rather than words.

“It is crucial that you ‘practice what you preach’ or ‘walk the talk,’” Milligan says.

When leaders fail to follow the same expectations they set for employees, trust erodes quickly. Modeling the behaviors you expect reinforces credibility and strengthens the workplace culture.

Together, these strategies highlight how everyday leadership habits can shape workplace relationships. By listening carefully, communicating clearly and modeling strong behavior, supervisors can create environments where employees feel respected, supported and motivated to perform their best.

The Animal Health Impact: Benefits of Adopting the PRRS-Resistant Pig

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:09:36 GMT

For the past 20 to 30 years, PRRS has taken an incredible toll on the farmers and veterinarians striving for the best possible animal health outcomes. Efforts to control the disease and minimize animal suffering require intensive intervention, with research showing up to a 3.79x increase in antibiotic use for infected herds. And despite those best efforts, the end result can still be devastating.

“PRRS has been the most frustrating thing we’ve had to deal with as veterinarians,” says Dr. Jason Hocker, partner and veterinarian at AMVC, a firm managing 161,500 sows across 11 states and 45 farms. “The virus changes and adapts and seems to always be one step ahead of us. It’s something we’ve not been able to make lot of progress on as an industry.”

The emotional toll on pig caretakers

The impact of PRRS extends beyond the animal and into the lives of those who care for them.

“It’s not just frustrating, it’s also emotionally taxing to the vets, farmers and farm employees who have to deal with what comes next after diagnosis,” adds Hocker. “Once you have a diagnosis, your heart just sinks and you immediately know it’s going to be challenging for weeks and months to come. You never really get used to it.”

Innovation to change the outlook

The decades-long trajectory could finally be changing with FDA approval of the gene edit used in PIC’s PRRS-resistant pig. This new tool can help chart a new future.

The gene edit precisely removes the binding site for PRRS via a protein in the pig’s DNA. Without the binding site, pigs can be resistant to the disease – and potentially avoid needless suffering, including fever, appetite loss, lethargy, weakness, death and more.

This innovation could paint a brighter picture for both swine health and responsible antibiotic use.

Advancing animal medicine towards human medicine

“Looking ahead, it’s incredibly exciting to know that we may have options to help us move the needle on this devastating disease,” says Hocker.

“We’re looking at the future of medicine here, not just animal medicine – but human medicine, too. The human side has been making advancements for years, so it’s exciting to step into the arena on the swine side and start paving a brighter future.”

Addressing the primary PRRS insult

Better pig health and a reduced need for antibiotics benefit the full supply chain – from farm to consumer. And it starts with focusing on PRRS.

“Today, we can’t treat the primary insult of PRRS,” says Hocker. “We’re treating all the things that come along with PRRS infection. If we successfully eliminate the primary PRRS insult, then we don’t have to worry about treating all the secondary infections that come along with it.”

Supporting antimicrobial stewardship

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has outlined core principles to improve antimicrobial stewardship.

The gene edit for a PRRS-resistant pig would support two of those principles: 1) systems of care that include a multi-pronged approach to preventing common diseases, and 2) positively impacting judicious use of antimicrobials.

“That’s huge for the pig and for public health, because we’re less reliant on the antimicrobials needed to keep pigs alive and healthy,” says Hocker.

Dig deeper into the research on how a PRRS outbreak impacts antibiotic use on farm.

Source:
Machado, I. et al. “Assessment of changes in antibiotic usage in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in naïve farrow-to-finish system.” Iowa State University. 2023. https://dr.lib.iastate.edu/handle/20.500.12876/105655

Biosecurity with the Environment in Mind

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:51:42 GMT

In the swine industry, it is widely known that phosphorus is an essential nutrient for the health and performance of pigs. However, it is also well understood that the manure and wastewater generated and handled by these production units contribute to the input of phosphorus and nitrogen in the environment through land application. Further, swine producers and veterinarians understand the need to effectively manage the storage, handling, and application of this manure and wastewater to prevent disease transmission, avoid nutrient pollution, and promote good environmental stewardship. This is accomplished through the implementation of management practices to include reducing the levels of phosphorus in the manure and wastewater and appropriately applying these nutrients to the surrounding land which allows effective plant utilization and prevents the risk of runoff. A failure to maintain the necessary balance of the nutrient flow of phosphorus and nitrogen within the environment can result in significant detrimental effects on the entire ecosystem. Biosecurity is an area of emphasis on all production units throughout the industry in which strategic selection of the products utilized can serve as a valuable approach to reducing the level of phosphorus in the generated waste from the facility.

The overapplication of phosphorus and nitrogen to the surrounding land leads to an imbalance in the soil which greatly increases the risk of nutrient runoff. The runoff of phosphorus that enters streams, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water is responsible for a variety of problems. This excessive level of phosphorus that ends up in our environmental water sources contributes to harmful algal blooms that produce toxins and reduce aquatic oxygen levels. The presence of toxins and deprivation of oxygen results in the inability of these water sources to sustain and support the necessary life forms for a stable ecosystem. This disruption in the ecosystem has far reaching effects on water quality for people in these affected areas. The impact on water quality results in a concern for the health and safety of these sources for human consumption and recreation. In the event these situations develop, the solutions to correct the problem and stabilize the environment can be very expensive. Therefore, methods for prevention are the better strategic approach for the swine industry.

One fundamental approach to prevention is reducing the levels of phosphorus in the generated waste products that reach the environment. Two important areas in which an impact can be made are specific diet formulation and strategic selection of biosecurity products. More specifically, the selection of the appropriate detergent for cleaning purposes utilized in the facility’s biosecurity protocols can prove to be very valuable at achieving phosphorus reduction. With biosecurity being at the forefront of a successful operation, phosphate-free, biodegradable detergents are a very effective means at establishing a clean surface in preparation for disinfection while at the same time utilizing a product that is environmentally friendly. The removal of all organic and inorganic material prior to disinfection remains a vital step in eliminating infectious disease. Therefore, phosphate-free, biodegradable, agricultural cleaners provide producers and veterinarians with a valuable solution to their biosecurity needs while being proactive in protecting the environment.

The implementation of highly effective, phosphate-free, biodegradable cleaners within a facility’s comprehensive biosecurity program still requires the selection of the appropriate chemistry to achieve the best results. A phosphate-free, acidic, foaming cleaner is effective for alternating pH programs in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles to remove mineral scale, detergent residues, and other elements that remain after repeated use of alkaline cleaners. Implementing a rotation between an alkaline cleaner and an acidic cleaner will assist in maximizing surface cleanliness for best results with disinfection. A phosphate-free, foaming, alkaline cleaner is effective for the removal of fats, proteins, grease, feces, and other biological material in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles. Phosphate-free, foaming, alkaline cleaners are available in both chlorinated and non-chlorinated formulations.

As the swine industry strives to optimize productivity and profitability, it is faced with important decisions regarding pig health and performance, biosecurity practices, and the environment. Therefore, it is quite evident the impact that the implementation of phosphate-free, biodegradable cleaners can have in serving as a component in protecting pigs from infectious disease and contributing to the sustainability of the environment.

Phosphate-Free EVO from Kersia

(Kersia USA)

Check In on Your Health Before It Checks Out

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:05:33 GMT

Long hours, unpredictable schedules and physically demanding work mean farmers and ranchers often put their own health last. Erin Martinez, a Kansas State University expert in adult development and aging, says it doesn’t have to be that way. A simple annual medical exam can help catch problems before they get out of hand.

“Farmers and ranchers are very good at taking care of their livestock and land, but they sometimes forget to take care of themselves,” Martinez says. “A yearly checkup is an important step in catching potential health concerns early.”

Why Preventive Care Matters
Farming is physically demanding and unpredictable. Long hours and seasonal peaks make it easy to push doctor visits aside. But routine exams allow healthcare providers to monitor important measures like blood pressure, cholesterol and other warning signs to catch potential health issues before they become serious.

“Preventive care lets providers look at the full picture of someone’s health,” Martinez says. “When we see patients regularly, we can identify changes sooner and address them before they become bigger issues.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, farmers and ranchers face higher rates of heart disease, high blood pressure and musculoskeletal injuries compared with the general population.

Take Action Before Things Get Busier

Martinez encourages producers to schedule checkups before the busy season begins. Planting, harvest and livestock seasonality can quickly push personal healthcare to the bottom of the to-do list.

“Taking the time for a yearly checkup is just like investing in your farm,” she says. “Catching potential health concerns early keeps you able to manage your operation and reduces the risk of bigger problems later.”

Routine exams also give farmers a chance to address mental health. Farming can be isolating, and stress, anxiety and depression are common in rural communities. A healthcare visit allows producers to check in on both physical and mental well-being.

Practical Tips

Taking care of yourself should be just as important as taking care of the farm. Planning ahead and making routine health care a habit helps prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems. Martinez offers a few practical ways for producers to stay on top of their health:

Schedule appointments during slower times of the year.
Ask about screenings, vaccinations, and preventive care.
Keep a record of blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key health metrics.
Involve family members to make regular checkups part of farm life.

“Farmers are usually the last ones to put themselves on the calendar,” Martinez says. “But staying on top of your health before things get busy can prevent problems that are harder to manage later.”

Compounded Drugs in Livestock: Regulations, Uses and Benefits

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:25:21 GMT

“Compounding pharmaceuticals are drugs that we start with an approved drug in livestock and poultry,” says Dr. Brian Payne, veterinarian and director of research and development and technical services for Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions on a recent episode of DocTalk . “We change the format of it so that it’s more applicable to the livestock species.”

In livestock medicine, you may face situations where no labeled drug exists for a specific species, condition or route of administration. In those cases, compounded drugs may provide an alternative by adapting approved medications into formulations better suited for food animal production systems.

Why Compounded Drugs Are Used in Livestock Medicine

One reason compounding plays a role in food animal medicine is the limited number of pharmaceuticals developed specifically for livestock species.

“There’s a limited amount of resources being spent on livestock today on new pharmaceuticals,” Payne says. “But there’s a lot of really good pharmaceuticals out there that veterinarians want to use for livestock. If we can take those active ingredients from FDA-approved products and get them into the right format, you have a whole other tool for your producers.”

Rather than creating entirely new drugs, compounding allows veterinarians and pharmacists to modify existing FDA-approved medications into formats better suited for livestock production.

How Compounded Drugs Improve Drug Delivery

One advantage of compounding is the ability to create alternative delivery methods that may better fit livestock production systems.

Many treatments traditionally require injections or running cattle through a chute, which can increase labor and stress for animals and handlers. Compounded formulations may allow treatments to be delivered through oral suspensions or drinking water systems when appropriate.

“If you’re putting it through the water, it can minimize handling, which is always a positive,” Payne says. “And also if you need to choose a drug that’s different, now you have the ability to administer it that way.”

Alternative delivery routes may also allow veterinarians to select drugs with different pharmacologic profiles when needed.

“It gives you the ability to choose a drug that’s different and administer it in a way that works for the operation,” Payne says.

Veterinary Regulations for Compounded Drugs

Despite some misconceptions, compounded drugs used in livestock are subject to regulatory oversight.

“We always have to start with an FDA-approved product,” Payne says. “Once we start manipulating or compounding those drugs, we have to follow procedures to make sure that’s cleanly done.”

Compounding itself can be performed either by a veterinarian or a pharmacist.

“Once a veterinarian gets their license, they have the full ability to compound themselves or a pharmacist can compound,” Payne explains. “A producer can’t compound on their own.”

A decision framework from the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act and FDA guidance that prioritizes approved treatments before considering compounded options should be followed:

Use an FDA-approved drug for the species, condition and route of administration when available.
Consider extra-label use of an approved product when appropriate.
Use compounded formulations when no approved option meets the clinical need.
Ensure the compounded drug begins with an FDA-approved product.
Establish appropriate withdrawal intervals to prevent residues.

Withdrawal Times and Quality Control

Residue avoidance remains a critical responsibility when using compounded drugs in food animals.

“There’s zero tolerance for any residues in compounded products, and we have to keep that in mind,” Payne says. “It’s the responsibility of the veterinarian to prescribe that with a withdrawal period.”

Withdrawal intervals may be determined using pharmacokinetic information, including drug half-life and available research data, to estimate when residues are no longer present in the animal.

Quality control is another important component of pharmaceutical compounding. Compounding pharmacies may test compounded batches to ensure the drug concentration matches the intended formulation.

“We want to check to understand if the potency we say is in there is actually in there,” Payne says.

Compounded Drugs as an Additional Tool for Livestock Veterinarians

Compounded drugs are not intended to replace approved pharmaceuticals. Instead, they provide another option when labeled products are unavailable or impractical for a particular situation.

For veterinarians managing herd health across diverse livestock systems, that flexibility can be valuable.

“It gives you another set of tools to utilize,” Payne says.

Advanced Solution for Swine Health

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:00:38 GMT

FORMYL^™ is a cutting-edge feed additive designed to enhance the health and productivity of swine. Our proprietary blend of encapsulated calcium formate and citric acid ensures optimal delivery and efficacy.

Benefits of FORMYL

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Why Choose FORMYL?

Targeted Delivery: Kemin’s encapsulation technology ensures that FORMYL’s active ingredients are released where they’re needed in the gastrointestinal tract.
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At Kemin, we’re dedicated to transforming the quality of life every day with our products and services. FORMYL is a testament to our commitment, developed to meet the highest standards of efficacy and safety.

Discover how FORMYL can make a difference in your swine operation.

Don’t Push Pause: How a Near-Fatal Accident Made Our Farm Succession Plan Crystal Clear

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:57:37 GMT

The last Friday in February was supposed to be a victory lap for a winter well-spent. It was a rare 65°F gift from the Illinois sky. The kind of afternoon where the sun feels like a promise of the spring to come.

My husband, Scott, and our youngest son, Jacob, spent the afternoon moving cattle between sites. It’s a project that usually takes three or four hours, and as any farmer knows, the cattle rarely cooperate. But Jacob did. He was right there, shoulder-to-shoulder with his dad. Our oldest son, Tyler, was home from college for the weekend, helping on the dairy with cattle work. It was one of those perfect, productive days where everyone was basking in the sunshine, the rhythm of the farm moving in a steady, beautiful cadence.

When the clock hit 5:00 p.m., Scott was ready to call it a day. Our local high school boys’ basketball team had made it to regionals, and we wanted to be there to cheer them on. We climbed into our SUV, chatting about the chores we’d finished and enjoying the lingering warmth of the day.

We were only a mile from our farm when the world shattered.

It happened in a blink. A truck made a mad dash across the four-lane highway, blindsiding us. There was no time to swerve, no time to brake. The police report would later confirm what we already knew: there was nothing we could have done.

Everyone tells you that life can change in a split second, but until you are sitting in the wreckage of mangled steel, surrounded by a dozen deployed airbags and the smell of gunpowder and dust, you don’t truly understand it. As we hit, I felt the impact vibrate through my very bones. I immediately started to pray. “We will be okay. God, make us okay.”

Through the haze of smoke and shock, Scott’s voice was the only thing I could hear. He was a trooper, his own safety forgotten.

“Karen, are you okay?” he asked, over and over.

I wanted to scream that I was fine. I wanted to tell him I was right there. But the shock was a physical weight. My mouth opened, a moan escaped, but the words were trapped behind a wall of trauma. I couldn’t speak.

The rest of the evening was a blur of sirens, flashing lights and the sterile white walls of the ER. The ambulance took me away; the tow truck took what was left of our vehicle. We spent the night under fluorescent lights, but we walked away. We got to go home.

In the days that followed, a deep, heavy appreciation for life settled over our house. I am thankful to be writing this story, though I would give anything to have never lived it. But the most emotional moment didn’t happen at the crash site; it happened at our farm.

(Karen Bohnert)

Our children asked the question every farm kid fears: “What would happen if both of you had passed?”

I cried. But for the first time, I could answer them with certainty. I told them about the will. I told them it was all outlined, all documented. It took me losing both of my parents and my brother — and writing about other families’ succession plans gone wrong for years — before we finally sat down and finalized our own a decade ago.

I think back to my own parents. It took them losing their own son — my brother — in an automobile accident to finally lean forward and be brave enough to talk about their own will. They put a plan together soon after and revised it a few times over the years. When the time came that we eventually lost our parents, my sisters and I were so incredibly thankful we did not have to worry about the logistics during our grief. My parents had it all documented. They gave us that peace of mind.

Farmers, I am pleading with you: Don’t push pause.

Don’t wait for a sunny day to have the conversation. Or a rain day. The highway doesn’t care about your schedule. Don’t wait because it’s an uncomfortable conversation; it will never get easier. Don’t wait because you aren’t sure what is “fair” or what is “best.”

Start the conversation today. Meet with a lawyer. Get it documented. You can always change and revise it — we already have once since we started.

I am so incredibly thankful that today, my kids are out in the dirt helping on the farm instead of sitting in a lawyer’s office reading a will. I am thankful they didn’t lose their parents on an Illinois highway. But mostly, I am thankful that if the worst had happened, they wouldn’t have been left in the dark.

Don’t wait. Your legacy is too important to leave to chance.

New Market Research Finds Consumers in Eight Key Pork Markets Are Likely to Purchase Pork from Gene-Edited Pigs

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:23:11 GMT

Food is personal. And so is trust. Across cultures, cuisines and continents, the choices people make about what to feed their families are rooted in deeply held values—health, safety, affordability and confidence in how food is produced. That trust is something the global pork industry works to earn every day.

At the heart of that work is a shared responsibility of producing high-quality, safe and nutritious food while caring for animals.

“Everything we do is about protecting those pigs from disease and making sure that we are able to help feed a growing population,” said fifth-generation Missouri hog farmer Chris Chinn.

That perspective resonates with producers worldwide, particularly as they face ongoing challenges from endemic diseases such as Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). With new advancements in animal health and genetics, how do producers continue to innovate while maintaining—and strengthening—consumer trust?

Understanding Consumer Acceptance Across Markets

To better understand how consumers view emerging technologies in pork production, PIC commissioned Circana, a global leader in consumer behavior insights, to survey more than 5,000 people, ages 18 to 70, in the United States, Canada, Japan, China, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Colombia and Brazil.

“This eight-country study is one of the largest global studies ever conducted on gene editing in food production,” said Staci Covkin, Circana Principal of Innovation, Consumer & Shopper Insights. “It reflects a meaningful investment in listening to consumers before bringing a product to market.”

Despite differences in language and food traditions, the research revealed a common thread: Consumers across all eight countries expressed a strong likelihood of purchasing pork from PRRS-resistant pigs.

“This wasn’t about convincing consumers,” Covkin added. “It was about understanding what matters to them, how they want it communicated, and how those values map back to the product.”

Why PRRS Resistance Matters to Consumers

Across all surveyed markets, the most influential motivator for purchasing pork from PRRS-resistant pigs was responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics. At the same time, PRRS increases the need for antibiotics by more than two-and-half times.²

Additional Insights from the Research Include:

Consumers who purchase and eat pork at least three times per month indicated above-average purchase likelihood.
Consumers who prioritize healthy eating were likely to view pork from PRRS-resistant pigs favorably.
Both younger and older consumers demonstrated strong openness to purchasing pork from gene-edited pigs.
On average across all eight countries, 47% of consumers indicated they are already familiar with gene editing.
More than 90% of consumers, on average, indicated they are open to purchasing pork from PRRS-resistant pigs.

Importantly, Circana’s likelihood scores are grounded in benchmarks developed through thousands of concept tests conducted for major consumer packaged goods companies over the past ten years.

“Circana Concept Testing has a 90%+ accuracy rate in predicting consumer behavior,” Covkin noted. “These results suggest openness that is not just theoretical, but likely to translate into real purchasing decisions.”

A Measured Path Forward

“Consumers want to know how the choices the pork industry makes benefit animals, farmers and families,” said Charlie Arnot, CEO of The Center for Food Integrity. “When the purpose is clear and grounded in care for animals, acceptance is likely to follow.”

For PRRS-resistant pigs, that purpose is straightforward—improving animal welfare, reducing the impact of a devastating animal disease and thus, responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics.

Circana’s research suggests that as the world learns more about gene editing, consumers are open to the benefits that come with the technology. Across diverse markets, consumers are willing to embrace innovation when it can improve animal welfare and support responsible food production.

As the global pork industry continues to evolve, these insights offer reassurance that innovation and trust can go hand-in-hand by delivering food that meets the values that consumers say they care about most.

Sources:
1. Circana Research Summary, commissioned by PIC. “Gene Editing Consumer & Shopper Insights,” November 2025.
2. Machado I, Petznick T, Poeta Silva APS, et al. Assessment of changes in antibiotic use in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in a naïve farrow-to-finish system. Prev Vet Med. 2024;233:106350. doi:10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2024.106350

How to Prevent Needlestick Injuries in Livestock Practice

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:30:04 GMT

Most injection injuries in food-animal practice never make it into an incident log. They happen, they sting and the work continues. But some of them are not minor. Some require urgent medical care, and recognizing which is which can prevent permanent damage.

Dr. Jeff Bender, veterinarian and director of the Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center at the University of Minnesota, recently spoke on the significance of accidental self-injection as an underreported occupational hazard in livestock medicine. It can be common to continue working, assuming the exposure is harmless, but that assumption is not always correct.

Immediate Response: Slow Down and Assess

When a needlestick occurs, the first step is to stop. Do not finish the chute run. Do not assume it is minor.

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and note the time of exposure. Identify the exact product involved, how much was injected and where. A superficial puncture through clothing is very different from a deep injection into a finger or thumb.

Bring the product bottle and label to medical care. Most physicians and emergency departments are unfamiliar with livestock pharmaceuticals. The clinical risk depends heavily on whether the product is oil-based, long-acting, hormonal, sedative or modified live.

As Bender emphasizes: “Make sure you grab the bottle, take this bottle with you to the urgent care or the clinic, and let them know this is what you got.”

Tetanus status should also be confirmed at the time of evaluation.

Certain exposures warrant immediate medical attention:

Oil-adjuvanted vaccines
Sedatives, such as xylazine
Hormonal products, such as prostaglandins

Further, if there is increasing pain, swelling, pallor or neurologic symptoms, medical attention is required. These are not wait-and-see injuries.

Not All Products Carry Equal Risk

The severity of a needlestick injury depends far more on the product than on the needle.

Oil-adjuvanted vaccines pose the greatest risk for local tissue damage. Oil-based products can trigger intense inflammatory reactions, increasing pressure within confined spaces like digits. Compartment syndrome, tissue necrosis and surgical intervention are real possibilities. Any digital injection with an oil-based vaccine should be treated as a potential surgical emergency until proven otherwise.

Sedatives present a different type of danger. Even small amounts absorbed systemically can lead to hypotension, respiratory depression, bradycardia or sudden collapse. Exposures involving sedatives warrant urgent evaluation and monitoring.

Bender shares a story highlighting how unpredictable animal behavior adds risk: “Recently, one of our residents had xylazine, and a rambunctious horse caused her to squirt it in her eye. She passed out, and luckily, she didn’t hit her head or anything.”

Hormonal products also deserve heightened caution. Prostaglandins and other reproductive hormones can have systemic effects and pose particular risk to pregnant individuals. What is a small dose for a cow can have meaningful physiologic consequences in a human.

Modified-live vaccines raise concerns about zoonotic potential depending on the organism involved, reinforcing the need for product-specific evaluation. Antibiotics and long-acting depot formulations are often underestimated. Allergic reactions, hypersensitivity and prolonged local inflammation are possible, particularly with depot products that extend tissue exposure time.

The guiding principle is simple: identify the compound before deciding the injury is minor.

Why Human Medicine May Struggle to Advise

Emergency physicians rarely encounter livestock vaccines or reproductive hormones. When a veterinarian or farm worker presents after an accidental injection, the provider may not know the formulation, adjuvant type or pharmacologic effect.

“Usually when I ask my physician colleagues this question… they really don’t have a clue,” Bender says.

Without clear product information, evaluation becomes guesswork.

This places veterinarians in the role of interpreter. Providing the exact product name, formulation and safety data sheet allows healthcare providers to assess risk accurately. Keeping that documentation accessible in clinic trucks or digital files is a simple and effective safeguard.

Prevention Starts Before the Stick

Injection injuries are often described as inevitable. In reality, many are predictable.

Fatigue at the end of processing days, poorly restrained animals and hurried recapping of needles are high-risk moments. Sedatives and oil-based vaccines deserve heightened procedural caution. For certain products, two-person administration may be appropriate.

Facility conditions also matter. Safe chutes, adequate lighting and readily available sharps containers reduce impulsive decision-making. A stocked first-aid kit everyone can locate is not optional. On many farms, especially those with newer employees or language barriers, safety training around injectable products may never have been formalized.

Risk reduction in this context does not require complex protocols. It requires intentional practice.

Key prevention points include:

Avoid recapping needles whenever possible
Ensure secure animal restraint before injection
Use appropriate needle length and gauge
Keep sharps containers accessible
Review high-risk drugs with staff before use

Take It Seriously

Food animal practice involves powerful pharmaceuticals administered in dynamic environments. Accidental injection is a predictable hazard of the profession.

The obligation is straightforward. Stop when it happens. Identify the product. Seek care when indicated. Build systems that reduce risk for the next time.

Needlestick injuries are not badges of experience. They are occupational exposures. And they deserve respect.

When Risk in a Crisis Becomes a Turning Point: Lessons from Top Producers

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:51:43 GMT

In a volatile agricultural landscape, risk is a constant. Weather, markets, input costs, succession issues, cyberthreats and pandemics all push farm families into uncomfortable decisions. During the “When Taking Risk in Times of Crisis Pays Off” panel at Top Producer Conference, six producers shared how they’ve navigated those moments — and what they’ve learned when the stakes were highest.

The panel, moderated by Rena Striegel, president of Transition Point Business Advisors in West Des Moines, Iowa, included: Edward and Rebecca Dalton, of Dalton Farms, Wakeman, Ohio; Chris Payne of 3B Hay & Straw, Ontario, Ore.; Wendy Alsum Dykstra and Heidi Alsum Randall of Alsum Farms and Produce, Friesland, Wis.; and Ron Rabou of Rabou Farms, Albin, Wyo.

Their stories spanned family tragedy, ransomware, COVID-19 disruptions, organic transitions and bold expansion moves — offering a candid look at what it really means to take risk in agriculture.

Here are five key takeaways from the conversation:

1. Crisis as a Catalyst, Not a Dead End

For several panelists, a crisis didn’t just test their operations; it forced a complete re-evaluation.

The Daltons describe being emotionally exhausted and financially stuck before a Top Producer event pushed them to question everything.

“We were floundering in agriculture,” Rebecca says. “We were not making any money, really. We were just doing it to do it and to continue that legacy. And we were to the point where, like, ‘why are we doing this?’ You know, we only have so many days here. We only have so much time here.”

After a series of family tragedies and persistent unprofitability, they made a bold move to transition about half their acres to organic production. The shift brought much-needed profitability and renewed purpose.

“The risk was I was going to quit farming,” Edward explains. “We needed something and a spark and to just want to farm again.”

In Wyoming, Rabou’s turning point came after the sudden death of his father and the unraveling of a complex family ranch structure. Walking away from a fifth-generation operation was emotionally painful, but necessary.

“We did a lot of soul searching, and I kind of came to the conclusion that the risk for me for not doing something was much greater than actually doing something,” he says.

Rabou and his wife started essentially from scratch, building an organic grain operation and a hunting enterprise, borrowing heavily despite having grown up in a “never borrow” mindset.

2. Numbers Matter — But They Aren’t Everything

A recurring theme was the importance of knowing your numbers while recognizing data alone cannot drive every decision.

“Knowing our numbers is what really helped us,” Edward explains. “If you know your own data front and back, when you really get into those tight situations that you need to be able to think and move… sometimes you just have to move, whether you want to or not.”

Recently, the Daltons made a bold move back to conventional production. The Daltons’ choice to step out of organic was a conscious decision to go against what the spreadsheet said, in favor of their family and team.

“Right now, when I’m hauling $12 beans instead of $40 beans, like we were for a few years, I’m not really happy with that decision, but it was too much time,” Edward explains. “We were losing time with our boys, and that ultimately is why we went back, even though we were making more money per acre.”

Rabou emphasizes having a clear philosophy about leverage: “I have no problem borrowing money on appreciating assets, but I have to be very careful about borrowing money on assets that depreciate.”

For him, land and infrastructure are long-game investments, and he admits he more often regrets the risks he didn’t take than the ones he did.

“I’ve never looked back and said I shouldn’t have made that investment,” he says. “But I have looked back a multitude of times and said, ‘Wow, I wish I would have made that investment.’”

3. Fear vs. Action: Moving When the Window Opens

Panelists agree that fear is often the biggest barrier to seizing opportunity — especially when decisions must be made quickly.

Oregon onion grower and packer Payne describes how, in the middle of a tense meeting, he and another young partner were essentially challenged to buy out older shareholders in an onion packing facility. They had seconds, not months, to commit.

His broader advice to producers now: “Don’t get caught up in fear. If you let fear dominate your thought processes, you’re never going to succeed.”

Preparation helps in those “15-second” decision moments, Payne adds. Continually learning, attending conferences and thinking through scenarios ahead of time gives you a framework so you’re not starting from zero when opportunity knocks.

Edward adds, “You absolutely know how it’ll go if you don’t try. If you’re not willing to try, it’s not going to work. You can’t move forward if you don’t do something or try.”

4. Cyberattacks, COVID-19 and the Power of Systems

For Alsum Farms & Produce crisis came in very modern forms: a ransomware attack and then the COVID-19 pandemic.

“At 3 a.m. one morning in October, I got a call from our IT manager that we had been hit with ransomware,” Wendy explains.

She explains recovery from the attack required all hands on deck, multiple external experts and months of work to protect traceability and keep product moving. The aftermath included layered backups, new server and email security, user training and an ongoing relationship with cybersecurity and insurance professionals.

Just months later, COVID-19 hit. With 90% to 95% of their business retail-focused, the Alsum team quickly formed a COVID-19 response group, redesigning workflows to keep employees safe and shelves stocked.

The sisters say one key result from COVID-19 was when another supplier faltered, the Alsums were ready to step up for a major retailer — turning crisis into opportunity.

5. Relationships as a Strategic Asset

Beyond capital and land, the panel underscores the value of relationships — with peers, competitors and buyers.

Edward, Payne and Rabou maintain a group text, often used when one of them is wrestling with a big decision.

“Have people in an industry that you can trust and communicate with,” Edward stresses. “There’s been days they’ve literally had to walk me off a ledge when I’m trying to figure out how to make a decision.”

In the potato and produce world, Heidi says, competitors often become collaborators when the chips are down.

“The nice thing about the potato industry and the produce industry in general that we’ve experienced is that it’s been very collaborative,” she explains.
Rabou adds he sometimes sells grain below top price to maintain long-term relationships and outlet security.

“Those relationships to me are more important than making the dollar in the moment,” he explains.

His broader warning to producers is to stop comparing your operation to your neighbors’.

“You really have to determine what works good for you as an individual, you as a couple, you as a business,” he stresses. “Stop paying attention to what everyone else is doing.”

The Bottom Line from Top Producers

Across all their stories, the panelists echoed a few core principles:

Know your numbers but also know your values.
Act in crisis — don’t let fear make the choice for you.
Be willing to pivot, even away from something profitable, if it no longer fits your life or strategy.
Invest in appreciating assets and in relationships, both of which can pay off long after the crisis has passed.

In short, risk in times of crisis isn’t just something to endure; handled intentionally, it can be the turning point that reshapes a farm for the better.

The Best Leaders Share These Three Behaviors

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:25:26 GMT

Leadership might sound like a big, formal word, but on the farm it’s really just about how you work with people every day. It’s how you talk to your team, how you handle mistakes and how you treat people when things get stressful.

When you’re just starting out, being a leader doesn’t mean you need all the answers or that you have to run everything perfectly. It’s okay to learn as you go. According to Marcel Schwantes, author of “ Humane Leadership: Lead with Radical Love, Be a Kick-ass Boss ,” when you’re just starting out, being a leader doesn’t mean you need all the answers or that you have to run everything perfectly. It’s okay to learn as you go.

He suggests regardless of the operation or title, strong leaders consistently rely on a small set of practical skills that can be learned, practiced and improved over time.

These skills include:

Show Real Interest in Your People

Take time to get to know the people who work for you, not just the job they were hired to do. Ask what they enjoy, where they want to improve and what they hope to learn next. That might mean running new equipment, taking on more responsibility or growing into a leadership role themselves.

“The best leaders genuinely want their people to thrive,” Schwantes says. “They’re willing to put the team’s needs first, share credit freely and take responsibility when things go sideways.”

He recommends supporting raises and added responsibility when they are earned and looking for chances to stretch people’s skills instead of keeping them in the same position. When employees feel genuinely valued, they take more pride in their work and show up differently every day.

Have Empathy

Many farm leaders were raised to believe emotions stay out of the workplace. Unfortunately in agriculture, empathy is often misunderstood as being too soft or letting things slide. But Schwantes notes empathy is actually one of the strongest leadership characteristics a person can have, because it helps leaders understand problems sooner and lead more effectively.

“Empathic leaders don’t just hear what people say; they understand the context, emotions and challenges behind it,” he says. “That perspective creates psychological safety, and safety unlocks creativity, problem-solving and collaboration.”

On a farm, this might look like noticing when a team member is struggling, checking in when someone seems overwhelmed or understanding the pressures your employees face at home. It’s about listening, recognizing stress and creating an environment where people feel safe asking for help.

Be Clear and Transparent

On a farm, clear communication makes everything run smoother. When your team knows what’s expected and why decisions are being made, they can work more confidently and avoid mistakes.

“A transparent culture builds trust and fosters collaboration,” Schwantes says. “When people feel safe voicing their thoughts, it deepens engagement and creates a more resilient, trustworthy team dynamic.”

Transparency also means being honest about challenges and inviting input. If something’s not working, your team should feel comfortable speaking up. The more open you are, the more trust you build — and the better your crew can handle the ups and downs.

Lead by Serving Your Team

A leadership role can feel overwhelming in some workplaces, but on the farm it doesn’t have to be complicated. Schwantes says it comes down to a few core skills — showing real interest in your people, practicing empathy and being clear and transparent.

Strong farms are built on strong teams, and strong teams are built by leaders who serve first. A leader who’s willing to jump in, listen and set a positive tone creates an environment where everyone can do their best work. And over time, that kind of leadership builds trust and creates a crew that’s ready to take on whatever comes their way.

It’s Time to Break Up with the Bad Employee

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:00:55 GMT

Having the right employees on your team is essential to keeping the farm running smoothly. Yet in many cases, workers are hired to fill an urgent labor gap and aren’t given the training or resources they need to succeed. When that happens, even well‑intentioned employees may struggle to fit the role or the team—ultimately leading to a labor “breakup.”

Jorge Delgado, a training and talent development specialist with Alltech, says the reluctance to address these situations is often emotional and more costly than managers realize. In a recent conversation, he compared it to staying in a romantic relationship long after it is clear it is not working.

Why Do Farms Struggle to Let Go?

For many farm owners, the biggest barrier to firing a poor-fit employee is fear.

“One fear that many farmers have is that they are not going to be able to find another employee to replace the person they are letting go,” Delgado explains.

This fear intensifies in specialized roles where skills are harder to find.

“This can especially be true for middle management positions,” Delgado adds. “These are more technical positions, and it can be really hard to find people to fill that role. Sometimes, that makes management hesitate to get rid of that person, even though it’s hurting production and numbers at the farm.”

Family and social ties on the farm add another complication. Delgado says it’s not uncommon for employees to be related, or tightly connected, to others on the crew.

“Sometimes these guys, they have family involved,” he adds. “The owners or managers are afraid that if they let go of oner person, these guys will take their family or friends with them.”

The result is a kind of emotional hostage situation. Even when the employee clearly doesn’t fit the culture or role, management feels stuck, hoping the situation will somehow improve on its own.

Have Clear Expectations

Many employee challenges on farms can be traced back to what did or did not happen on the first day of work. Delgado says problems often begin long before performance issues show up, simply because expectations were never clearly laid out.

“You have to have rules and regulations really clear and established on a far,” Delgado says. “Most of the farmers hire people on the spot, get them trained and get them going. These people don’t necessarily go through a formal onboarding process where they go through the expectations, the rules and regulations, and so they don’t know anything about it.”

When those expectations are never clearly explained, performance conversations and eventual terminations can feel unfair on both sides. Employees feel blindsided, and managers feel frustrated. In many cases, the breakdown started on the first day the employee walked onto the farm.

He also stresses the value of doing basic reference checks before hiring, an often-skipped step in agriculture.

“Sometimes we just hire the individual that is right at the door, and we don’t do any research,” Delgado says. “But that research can be an early sign that this individual is not the right fit for my culture.”

The Three-Strike Approach

Before any tough decision is made, farmers need a clear framework for addressing performance issues. Delgado recommends a structured, professional process—one that gives employees fair warning while protecting the farm.

He suggests a simple three-strike policy:

Verbal warning - Delgado stresses that this first step should be a clear, calm and deliberate conversation. The manager needs to sit down with the employee and explain exactly what behavior or performance issue needs to change, why it matters to the operation and what improvement looks like.

He encourages farmers to avoid vague statements like “you need to do better” and instead focus on specific, measurable expectations. The employee should leave the conversation knowing precisely what needs to change and the timeframe to correct it.

Written warning - If the issue continues after the verbal warning, Delgado says it is time to move to formal documentation. This step should be more structured and intentional, signaling to the employee that the concern is serious and must be addressed.

“You need to sit down with the person and explain what’s going on,” Delgado says. “It becomes more structuralized, because the person and both parties should sign a document saying, ‘Look, this is the second time you did this, and these are going to be the consequences if you do it for the third time.’”

Termination -If the behavior does not change after verbal and written warnings, Delgado says it is time to part ways. By this point, the employee has been given clear expectations, opportunities to improve, and formal notice that the issue is serious.

Delgado encourages farmers to handle this step professionally and directly. The conversation should be private, respectful and brief. The manager should clearly state that the employee is being let go, reference the previous warnings, and avoid turning the meeting into a debate or long explanation.

Watch for Red Flags

Every farm has its own internal culture. Employees work closely together, talk with one another and often recognize problems long before management does.

“In this small circle, things travel fast, especially trouble,” Delgado says. “When there is a person who is not behaving properly or doing something wrong, the team will try to get rid of this person. And the first sign is they will communicate with management.”

Delgado adds that the mistake many managers make is brushing off those early comments or complaints. When multiple employees start raising concerns about the same person, it is often an early warning sign that something is not working and needs attention before it affects the whole crew.

“Many times, the managers avoid these signs,” Delgado say. “They think, ‘Just let it go. Everything’s fine. We’ll take care of this later’ and they totally avoid the problem. By the time they realize it is a big issue, it’s too late.”

Common red flags include chronic lateness, cutting corners, skipping protocols and poor communication. These patterns aren’t only unprofessional, but they can create extra work and frustration for the dependable employees.

“At some point you have to say, ‘What’s going on here?’” Delgado notes. “Don’t ignore the red flags and sweep them under the rug.”

When You Have to Fire on the Spot

Not every situation needs to follow a step-by-step process. Sometimes, inappropriate behavior or actions require immediate dismissal.

“Sometimes you have to get rid of somebody on the spot,” Delgado says. “For example, someone mistreating animals, damaging equipment, mistreating coworkers, stealing or causing serious disruption needs to be let go of immediately. When behavior like drugs, alcohol, sexual harassment or anything else begins to change the culture and environment of the farm, there are no second chances.”

In these cases, keeping the wrong person sends the wrong message to the rest of the team. It makes it look like serious issues can be overlooked or tolerated. It creates frustration for employees who follow the rules, do their jobs well and expect the same standards from others.

Check In, Listen and Make Employees Feel Valued

Preventing tough breakups with employees starts well before any termination talk. Regular check-ins—both formal and informal—can catch small issues before they grow into major problems.

“Formal reviews need to be mandatory,” Delgado says. “But they often aren’t regular. Also, survey your culture. Anonymous surveys usually get people to speak up, and you’ll learn a lot about the reality of your team and the culture.”

One simple question he likes to ask employees is: Would you recommend a friend or family member to work here?

“If the answer is no, something is off,” he adds. “You need to fix that now rather than dealing with the fallout later and having to let too many people go.”

Beyond systems and surveys, many farm employees simply don’t feel valued.

“Ask an employee what their role is, and they often say, ‘I just do ‘fill in the blank’” Delgado says. “They don’t see the big picture, and it’s our job to make them feel relevant.”

That means communicating mission, purpose and appreciation—much like in a healthy marriage.

“If you aren’t telling your spouse you appreciate them, you can’t be surprised when the relationship fails if you only point out the negatives,” he adds

Breaking Up the Right Way

Running a farm isn’t just about managing equipment, crops and livestock. It also means managing people. And while you can’t control every employee’s choice, you can:

Set clear expectations from day one
Document verbal and written warnings
Pay attention to the “inner community” of employees
Use reviews and surveys to monitor morale and culture
Communicate how valuable and relevant your team members are

And when it becomes clear that someone isn’t a fit, you owe it to your business and your team to act.

Love on the Farm Means Managing Stress Together

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:10:30 GMT

On today’s farms and ranches, the toughest conversations don’t always happen in the farm office. They happen with your spouse at the kitchen table or in the last few minutes before turning in for the night. That stress of farm life is constant, and it can easily spill over into your relationship.

To help couples navigate these everyday pressures, Sean Brotherson, family science specialist with North Dakota State University, and Kale Monk, associate professor of human development and family science at the University of Missouri share practical strategies couples can use to manage that stress together so they can stay connected, handle the pressures of the season and keep both their farm and their partnership running smoothly.

Where Does Stress Show Up?

Stress can show up in all sorts of everyday situations on the farm, often in ways that feel routine but can add pressure to a relationship. Here are some common areas where couples on farms and ranches may feel that tension:

Planting, harvest and busy seasons often mean long days, leaving little time for meals together, errands or family activities.
Taking an off-farm job can shift responsibilities at home, creating different role expectations than maybe what was expected.
Weekend work or caring for children can make it hard to find time for meaningful moments to connect together like date nights or family meals.

As many know, these kinds of situations are a normal part of life on a farm. But catching stress early gives couples a chance to talk it out and deal with issues before they turn into bigger problems.

Tips for Staying Connected When Farm Life Gets Busy

When life on the farm gets hectic, it’s easy for stress to take over and for couples to drift apart without even realizing it. However, small everyday habits can help keep you connected even when life feels nonstop. Brotherson and Monk list 12 tips couples can use to stay connected and support each other while managing the demands of farm and family life.

Plan Together

“Set measurable goals together for a year from now, five years from now and your lifetime together,” Brotherson says. “Make decisions about time together in farming/ranching, other jobs or retirement. Then, focus on enjoying what you have decided to do.”

Planning together is a good first step, but keeping your connection strong takes daily check-ins and small ways of looking out for each other.
Check In Daily

“Look for and give attention to early indications of stress, such as a furrowed brow or a tense voice,” Brotherson says. “Respond with love and attention as needed.”
Express Appreciation

“Take time daily to state one item you appreciate about your partner,” Brotherson says.

Showing gratitude isn’t just about being polite. Taking the time to notice and acknowledge the little things your partner does can make both of you feel more connected, appreciated and supported.

“When your partner does something you appreciate, it’s vital to express gratitude,” Monk adds. “This makes partners feel valued and helps us see how we can keep pleasing each other.”
Use Clear Communication

“In talking, use ‘I’ statements more than ‘you’ statements,” Brotherson says. “Your partner will likely not change if you argue, ‘You’re always wanting to buy something else!’ Instead, try using an ‘I’ statement, like ‘I get worried and angry when I hear you wanting to buy a new piece of equipment. What I’d like is for the two of us to sit down and decide together which major purchases we can afford.’”
Listen Carefully

“Especially on serious matters, it is important to listen well and help your partner feel they have been heard and understood,” Brotherson notes. “Listen so that you can repeat back to your partner’s satisfaction what she or he says and feels. Focus on listening without being upset or defensive.”
Be Flexible With Roles

“Letting others do things you usually do and adjusting your expectations when necessary can reduce pressures,” Brotherson adds. “Share the responsibility of things such as family chores, cooking or kid care.”
Schedule Time to Talk

“When problems arise, schedule time for the two of you to brainstorm and discuss ideas,” Brotherson says. “Weigh the costs and benefits of each solution. Arrive at a plan that enables both of you to get something you want.”
Set Aside Time as a Couple

“To keep your marriage or partnership growing, take a break from the work, the children or other distractions. If it helps, make it a rule to talk about only yourselves as a couple and not about the farm or ranch operation.”

Taking that time together doesn’t have to be serious. Making it fun can make it even more meaningful.

“The more ridiculous or fun the activity, the better, in my opinion,” Monk adds. “Do something that makes both of you laugh and enjoy each other’s company.”
Use Social Media Sparingly
Social media can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family or share pride and appreciation for your partner. But it can also create stress, spark jealousy or make us compare our lives to the polished versions others post online.

“If we try to ‘keep up’, these artificially positive glimpses into other people’s lives can leave us feeling discouraged and resentful. Becoming consumed by social media and posting excessively can indicate growing insecurity in ourselves or our relationships.”
Laugh Together
On a farm, the days are long and there’s always something demanding your attention. Brotherson suggests taking a few minutes to laugh at a small mistake or a silly moment to lighten the mood and get through the day.

“Remember, always being serious is stressful while laughter reduces stress,” Brotherson says. “Watch a funny movie, share funny stories or find other ways to laugh.”
Celebrate Milestones

“Celebrate your anniversary, birthday, the arrival of a new foal or calf, getting the field planted before the rain and other milestones. Take joy in your lives together,” Brotherson says.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help
Every relationship is unique, Monk says, and what works for one couple may not work for another. Partners have different needs and respond differently depending on their background, culture or experiences. If you ever feel unsure about handling challenges on your own, consider seeking therapy or counseling.

“Remember that therapy is not only for troubled relationships,” Monk adds. “Therapy can help preserve relationship happiness and prevent problems before significant conflicts arise.”

Build a Strong Partnership Over Time

Stress is a normal part of farm life. However, couples who practice daily communication, show appreciation and remain flexible often find they are better equipped to handle the pressures that come with farming or ranching.

By being intentional about their relationship, farm couples are better able to handle the busy seasons, the hard days and the everyday demands of agriculture while keeping their relationship just as much of a priority as the work.

Where Finisher Performance Really Begins

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:04:09 GMT

In pork production, finishing performance does not begin in the finisher barn. It is largely determined in the earliest phases of a pig’s life. Genetics that support Early Phase Vitality set the foundation for pigs that finish stronger, convert feed more efficiently, and deliver higher overall profitability.

Early Phase Vitality refers to a combination of key traits, including robustness, survivability, and birth weight. These traits influence how well pigs handle stressors, transitions, and health challenges later in life. Topigs Norsvin’s TN Duroc highlights how Early Phase Vitality is a key factor for both finishing success and feed conversion efficiency.

A Strong Start Creates Robust Finishers

Pigs that begin life strong are better equipped to perform through every subsequent phase. TN Duroc offspring demonstrate this clearly as they move into the finishing phase. Their strong start during farrowing and piglet rearing supports proper gastrointestinal development and immune system function, both of which are essential for resilience later on.

As pigs transition from nursery to finisher, they encounter several challenges, including dietary changes, environmental shifts, social stress, and disease pressure. Pigs lacking robustness often respond to these challenges with reduced intake, slower growth, or health setbacks. In contrast, pigs with high Early Phase Vitality recover more quickly, maintain intake, and experience less disruption in performance.

This resilience shows up in measurable outcomes. Across multiple trials, TN Duroc offspring have demonstrated finishing mortality that is 0.3 to 3.6 percentage points lower than other Duroc lines . Lower mortality not only improves throughput but also reduces labor, medication costs, and management intervention during the finishing phase.

Undisturbed Growth Drives Uniformity and Throughput

Robust finishers grow more consistently. TN Duroc offspring are less sensitive to health and environmental disturbances, allowing for undisturbed growth and improved uniformity through market weight. Uniform groups simplify management decisions, support standardized feeding programs, and improve the percentage of pigs delivered in higher-quality categories.

From an operational standpoint, fewer disruptions mean fewer “problem pens,” less sorting, and more predictable performance. These advantages directly tie back to Early Phase Vitality, enabling pigs to fully express their genetic potential instead of using energy for recovery and immune response.

Early Phase Vitality and Feed Conversion Are Directly Linked

Feed efficiency remains the largest economic driver in finishing barns. Efficient conversion of feed into lean, high-quality pork requires pigs that maintain intake and digestive efficiency, even under pressure.

Early Phase Vitality plays a direct role here. TN Duroc offspring enter the finishing phase with a well-developed gastrointestinal tract and a strong immune system. This combination enables them to digest nutrients more efficiently and maintain feed intake during mild health or environmental challenges.

Comparative trials show TN Duroc outperforming other Duroc lines by 0.02 to 0.07 points in feed conversion . While these numbers may appear small, the economic impact is substantial. Every 0.01 improvement in feed conversion represents approximately 2.2 pounds of feed saved per pig, translating into 4.4 to 15.4 pounds of feed savings per marketed animal.

Those feed savings compound quickly across large production systems, directly improving margin without sacrificing growth rate or carcass quality.

Maximizing Genetic Potential from Birth to Market

Early Phase Vitality ensures that genetic potential is not lost to early setbacks. When pigs remain healthy, uniform, and resilient, producers can apply consistent feeding strategies and fully leverage the growth and efficiency traits bred into the terminal sire line.

For TN Duroc, feed efficiency and robustness are not trade-offs; they are complementary outcomes of a balanced breeding strategy. The result is a finisher pig that grows efficiently, requires fewer resources, and delivers more value at market.

The Bottom Line

Finishing performance starts early. Early Phase Vitality creates pigs that are more robust, experience lower mortality, and grow with fewer disruptions. That same foundation supports improved feed conversion through better gut development, stronger immunity, and consistent intake.

For producers focused on throughput, efficiency, and profitability, investing in genetics that prioritize Early Phase Vitality pays dividends all the way to market weight.

How the $15 Million Estate Tax Exemption Changes Your Farm Succession Strategy

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:01:10 GMT

The world of estate planning for farmers has changed dramatically after the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This permanently increased the lifetime gift and estate tax exemption to $15 million indexed starting Jan. 1. With the federal estate tax exemption at historically high levels, most family farms are no longer at risk of paying federal estate tax. However, this shift has brought a new focus to income tax planning and the importance of preserving the step-up in basis at death.

Understand the Step-Up in Basis

When a person passes away, the value of their property is generally reset to its fair market value at the date of death. This is known as a “step-up in basis.” For farm families, this is a crucial benefit. Farmland and other agricultural assets often appreciate significantly over time. If heirs inherit these assets, they receive them at the new, higher value. This means that if they later sell the property, they will owe little or no income tax on the appreciation that occurred during the original owner’s lifetime.

Why Estate Tax Is Less of a Concern

With the current high exemption, only the largest farm estates face federal estate tax. For most families, the bigger risk is not estate tax; it’s the potential for large income taxes if the step-up in basis is lost. This can happen if assets are given away during the owner’s lifetime, rather than being passed on at death.

The Pitfalls of Lifetime Gifting

Many farmers consider making large gifts during their lifetime, worried that the estate tax exemption will drop in the future. While this can be a good strategy for very large estates, it can be costly for smaller farm operations. When assets are gifted during life, the recipient takes over the original owner’s basis, which is often much lower than today’s value.

If the recipient later sells the property, they could face a significant income tax bill. In contrast, if the property is inherited, the basis is stepped up to current value, minimizing or eliminating income tax.

Likely the best asset to gift during lifetime is farmland that will be retained in the family for multiple generations. The step-up in this case is not as valuable because we can’t depreciate farmland, and if it is not going to be sold, the heirs are not worse off. Plus, appreciation in farmland can be very volatile and could cause the farm couple to owe estate tax.

Hidden Cost of Gifting Negative Capital

Many farm operations are structured as a partnership for income tax purposes and farms with debt will typically create what is called a negative capital account and, in many cases, this can easily exceed $5 to $10 million for larger farm operations. Gifting any interest in these partnerships during a lifetime will create ordinary income to the farmer because the “debt” eliminated exceeds the basis in the partnership’s assets, which is typically zero. Whereas holding until death eliminates the tax for their heirs. However, a drawback is that the older generation might still be on the hook for the debt until they pass.

For the vast majority of farmers, estate tax planning is now about smart income tax planning. Preserving the step-up in basis at death can save heirs substantial taxes and help keep the family farm in the family. Careful planning today can help protect your family’s legacy for generations to come.

Paul Neiffer has been tracking the latest in tax policy and government programs. Learn more about what you should factor into your farm business and potential tax implications at Top Producer Summit, Feb. 9-11 in Nashville. View the agenda and register today !

How to Handle Tension Before it Becomes Conflict

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:37:46 GMT

Conflict on farms isn’t always obvious. It doesn’t have to show up as a dramatic argument or a big blow-up moment. Most of the time, it starts as frustration over a task, strain between coworkers or even just someone quietly checking out.

While conflict can feel messy, it’s not a sign something is broken. According to Hernando Duarte, farm labor outreach specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, it’s a reality of farm work.

“In labor-intensive environments like farms and other agricultural operations, conflict between employees [and family] can happen,” Duarte explains. And on farms, that friction is hard to avoid.

Conflict Can Feel Personal

Duarte notes conflict feels uncomfortable for a reason. On a farm, long hours, physical work and constant pressure can make disagreements feel personal, even when they’re not. Sometimes, just a simple disagreement can feel like a personal attack.

“Our brains often perceive conflict as a threat, which makes it uncomfortable and leads many people to avoid it,” he says.

That instinct to avoid tough conversations is understandable, but avoiding conflict doesn’t make it disappear. According to Duarte, the difference between a farm that struggles and one that moves forward often comes down to how leaders respond when tension shows up.

Most Conflict Starts Below the Surface

Sometimes a disagreement looks like just part of the daily grind, but Duarte emphasizes that understanding what’s underneath the issue is the first step toward solving and preventing conflict in the future.

On farms, those underlying causes often include:

Misunderstandings about expectations or tasks
Different work styles and decision-making speeds
Unclear roles or responsibilities
Cultural or language barriers within diverse teams
Stress and fatigue during peak seasons
Generational differences in values and priorities

None of these are unusual in agriculture, they’re often just a natural part of running a farm. More hands and different perspectives can sometimes cause small misunderstandings, but that’s just a normal part of working together as a team.

Turning Conflict Into Progress

It can be tempting to hope tension works itself out. But Duarte warns that avoiding conflict usually makes the situation worse.

When conflict is ignored, Duarte says farms often see:

Lower morale and growing frustration
Reduced productivity and focus
Higher employee turnover
Declines in performance, quality and safety

Unresolved conflict doesn’t just go away. Left unaddressed, small tensions can grow and start affecting how the team works together.

“Conflict doesn’t have to be a negative thing,” Duarte says. “When handled properly, it can lead to stronger communication, better teamwork and long-term improvements and innovation.”

Handled well, conflict can actually move a team forward. Duarte encourages leaders to:

Create space for private, respectful conversations
Listen to all sides without interruption
Look beyond surface issues to understand the real concern
Refocus discussions on shared goals, including a safe, productive, respectful workplace
Agree on clear next steps, responsibilities and follow-up
Bring in additional support if issues repeat or escalate

Addressing conflict early helps keep small issues from turning into long-term setbacks and gives teams a chance to work better together.

Leadership Sets the Tone

At the end of the day, Duarte says resolving on-farm conflict starts with leadership. If managers ignore tension, people notice. If they step in and handle issues calmly and fairly, the whole team feels more confident.

Leading by example, communicating clearly and checking in regularly all help reduce future conflict. Training supervisors to handle small issues early can keep them from becoming bigger disruptions later.

Conflict isn’t fun, but it doesn’t have to be a bad thing. When it’s handled the right way, it can actually make the team stronger. It’s a chance to build trust, clear up expectations and keep everyone moving in the same direction.

New Market Research Finds U.S. Consumer Interest in Pork from Gene-Edited Pigs

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 17:53:06 GMT

What do consumers really think about purchasing pork from gene-edited pigs?

It’s an important question, and one that Circana—a global leader in consumer behavior insights—has spent years researching, polling more than 8,000 consumers across numerous studies to find an answer.

“Circana has conducted research on this topic for more than two-and-a-half years, consistently finding that gene-edited pork scores in the upper quintiles when consumers are introduced to the concept and its benefits, which indicates that consumers are motivated to buy pork from gene-edited pigs,” said Staci Covkin, Circana Principal of Innovation, Consumer & Shopper Insights.

Circana’s most recent research, commissioned by PIC, surveyed more than 5,000 consumers across eight countries, ages 18 to 70.

“This eight-country study is one of the largest global studies ever conducted by Circana, and reinforces PIC’s commitment to understanding the consumer,” said Staci Covkin, Circana Principal of Innovation, Consumer & Shopper Insights.

Consumers favor responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics

Among U.S. consumers, responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics is a primary motivator for purchasing pork produced this way. In fact, heavy pork consumers, females, healthy meat consumers and boomers indicated an above average purchase likelihood of pork from gene-edited pigs.

“Circana Concept Testing has a 90%+ accuracy rate on in-market retail, category, brand, and consumer behavior predictions,” said Covkin. “Circana has conducted thousands of concept tests for major consumer packaged goods and general merchandise manufacturers over the past 10 years and has validated numerous successes across many different categories.”

When directly asked if U.S. consumers would avoid pork produced this way, fewer than 6% of respondents indicated they would be less likely to purchase this pork.

Results affirmed by additional research

The findings of Circana’s research closely aligned with research completed by the Center for Food Integrity (CFI) and Food Industry Association (FMI), which also found that pork from gene-edited pigs performed above benchmark norms for purchase likelihood and that the strongest acceptance is driven by reduced antibiotic use.²

Similarly, CFI and FMI’s research identified that heavy pork consumers, females, healthy meat consumers and boomers indicated an above average likelihood of pork from gene-edited pigs.

Per CFI, “results show that PRRS-resistant pork can be positioned as a widely accepted gene-edited product.”

While PRRS-resistant pigs are not yet for sale in the U.S., research like Circana’s and CFI and FMI’s helps to illustrate that consumers are open to technology when it delivers direct benefits to them and to our shared food system.

“Gene editing offers incredible promise, but success depends on connecting with consumers and delivering benefits that align with their values,” said Charlie Arnot, CEO of The Center for Food Integrity. “Consumers are much more open to gene-edited products when the benefits are clear, personal and values-based.”

As familiarity of gene editing has grown over the last three years, so has acceptance of gene editing. In fact, familiarity has increased from 37% to 57% from December 2024 to November 2025.

Consumers continue to evolve on this topic, and PIC is committed to continuing to understand their needs and perspectives.

References:
¹ Circana Research Summary, commissioned by PIC. “Gene Editing Consumer & Shopper Insights,” November 2025.
² The Center For Food Integrity. “The Potential of Gene Editing.” November 2025. https://app-na1.hubspotdocuments.com/documents/20661110/view/1522204506?accessId=a980d7
MI#119

OSU Agriculture Launches Animal Excellence Initiative to Improve Livestock Health

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 21:00:11 GMT

Oklahoma State University is building on its long-standing tradition of leadership in animal agriculture with the launch of the OSU Agriculture Animal Excellence initiative, a comprehensive effort to elevate teaching, research and Extension programs that impact animal health.

OSU Creates Beef Center of Excellence

At the heart of this initiative is the creation of the Beef Center of Excellence, a cross-disciplinary hub designed to unite experts across the beef supply chain.

The Beef Center of Excellence will drive innovation through cutting-edge research, advanced Extension services and collaborative partnerships aimed at improving profitability and sustainability for beef producers today and in the future, said Robert Hodgen, president and CEO of King Ranch Inc. and a member of the Beef Center of Excellence advisory board.

“Creating the Beef Center of Excellence is a way to put a stake in the ground and say that Oklahoma State is going to be great at thinking about the broader cattle and beef industry,” Hodgen said. “By having this, we can attract even more great students from around the world, who want to focus on making a great-tasting product that’s nutritious for the consumer and grown in a sustainable manner.”

Supported by an advisory board, an executive director and endowed chairs in areas such as artificial intelligence, beef cattle economics, and rangeland ecology, the Beef Center of Excellence will fund impactful research and outreach.

Additionally, the Animal Excellence initiative includes facility and technology upgrades to modernize OSU’s animal teaching and research units.

OSU remains one of the few universities with operating units for all food animal species and is nationally recognized for the superior quality of livestock, teaching and research, all within proximity to OSU’s main campus.

“The animal units are a critical part of everything we do,” said Richard Coffey, head of the OSU Department of Animal and Food Sciences. “The animal units so close to campus give us the opportunity to use them as a recruiting tool for real, hands-on teaching with our students. Part of the reason we get students from more than 40 different states across the U.S. is that they know they can come to OSU and participate in hands-on learning as part of their education.”

OSU Agriculture established the Animal Unit Endowment Fund to address critical infrastructure needs, advancing experiential learning and research capabilities to enhance human, animal and environmental health.

“We are at the point that a lot of our facilities are starting to show their age,” Coffey said. “We’ve completed some master planning to really think about what the next 20 to 30 years will look like for those units, not only to keep the locations where they’re at, but also to have modern facilities for our students. We’re looking to upgrade some of our facilities since they are at the end of their functional life.”

Oklahoma Pork Council Gifts Farm Improvements

Recently, the Oklahoma Pork Council made a generous gift to the OSU Swine Research and Education Center to support building improvements and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital program.

The Oklahoma Pork Council Board of Directors values the work OSU does in swine production research and in providing hands-on learning experiences for students, said Kylee Deniz, executive director of the Oklahoma Pork Council.

“As a board representing the full spectrum of Oklahoma’s pork industry, from first-time 4-H exhibitors to our largest commercial producers, our mission is to support each segment,” Deniz said. “We believe the OSU Swine Research and Education Center is pivotal in equipping the university to lead the swine industry forward through cutting-edge research that can be applied directly on Oklahoma pig farms.”

Deniz said the Oklahoma Pork Council wants to help build the Swine Research and Education Center for the future, a facility that will not only support the industry through relevant, high-quality production research but also train and equip students to enter and excel in the pork industry workforce.

“OSU has the potential to serve as a hub for the pork industry and as a trusted resource for consumers who want to better understand how pigs are raised,” she said. “Through this investment, the benefits to the industry reach both sides of on-farm advancements while also building consumer confidence in how Oklahoma pork is produced.”

In addition to the Swine Research and Education Center, the Animal Unit Endowment Fund will provide support to maintain and enhance the student experience and research capabilities of the Charles and Linda Cline Equine Center, the Ferguson Family Dairy Center, the Sheep & Goat Center, the Purebred Beef Center and the Willard Sparks Beef Research Center.

For more information about supporting the Beef Center of Excellence and OSU’s animal teaching and research units, visit Animal Excellence online .

Producers and Veterinarians Are Taking Back Agriculture’s Story Online

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:31:45 GMT

“In agriculture, if we don’t tell our story, someone else will, and they’re not telling it right,” says sixth-generation rancher Tucker Brown .

Most Americans have never set foot on a cattle operation, yet millions scroll past videos every day telling them how livestock are raised, what antibiotics do and whether beef belongs on their plate. Increasingly, that information isn’t coming from veterinarians or producers. It’s coming from influencers, activists and algorithm-fueled accounts that often get the facts wrong.

At the same time, consumer curiosity about animal welfare and food safety has never been higher. Nearly 70% of U.S. consumers say animal welfare is very important to their purchasing decisions. However, there exists a gap between what people think happens in cattle health and what is actually occurring on farms.

Meet the Experts: Real-Life Ranchers and Vets on Instagram

Ranchers Brown and Emma Coffman recently sat down at a Stockmanship and Stewardship event to discuss the importance of online advocacy, building trust and making an impact through educational content on social media.

Brown is a rancher at R.A. Brown ranch in Throckmorton, Texas. With nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram , he has been using his platform to educate, entertain and build trust with consumers for over seven years. Although admittedly, Brown’s purpose for posting shifted from his original intent.

“At first, it was just to help me sell more registered bulls,” he says. “But what ended up happening was there were more consumers watching my stuff than bull customers, and so, this trust was being built between consumers and myself and other ranchers.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tucker Brown (@tuckerbrownrab)

Coffman, the founder and owner of Double E Ranch Advocacy , is a first-generation agriculturalist. Her passion for public agricultural education began when she discovered just how much information was never communicated to consumers.

“When I started getting an interest in agriculture through 4-H and FFA, I had a lot of questions,” she says. “I realized there was a lot of what I thought was very simple, basic one-on-one information about how our food is grown and the labeling behind it that we weren’t talking about to consumers.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Double E Ranch (@double_e_ranch_)

Both Brown and Coffman agree the people with mud on their boots and dirt on their hands from the farm should be the ones to answer consumer questions where their food comes from and how it’s grown.

Bovine veterinarian Dr. Erika Nagorske, who has amassed almost 17,000 followers on Instagram , takes a highly educational approach. She’ll often post about unique cases asking vet students for their diagnosis, following up with the answer a couple weeks later.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dr. Erika Nagorske (@docnagorske)

“The reason why I keep doing it is the educational piece, especially for veterinary students. I love teaching vet students and I really like teaching producers who want the extra information,” Nagorske says. “Nobody wins if the vet doesn’t explain what they’re doing and what they’re thinking. It’s a teaching platform.”

Brown, Coffman and Nagorske view what they do as a way to increase public understanding of where their food comes from and the role of veterinarians in agriculture.

“In the ag space, it’s so hard. I think we always complain that nobody understands us,” Nagorske says. “I grew up in a city, fell in love with the industry, and I want to share it. If we don’t share it, we can’t complain that people don’t know.”

Getting Started: 4 Tips for Effective Ag Social Media

Are you thinking about sharing on social media? Coffman and Brown had the following recommendations:

Remember the why: Your goal should be in the front of your mind
Don’t worry about being polished: Being relatable is more important
Use your personality: People often connect with the human before the information
Keep it simple: Answer one question per post

“It’s really about trying to take complex subjects, bring it down to a baseline level and then build your advocacy off of that,” Coffman says. “And don’t be afraid to repeat yourself.”

In cattle production, there are a number of commonly asked questions. Coffman advises going back to these topics with varying approaches to get the message across. Further, there are a lot of everyday on-farm activities that consumers have never seen before. Above all, conveying the information in a way the audience will understand is most important.

Winning Trust: How to Handle Negative Comments Online

As with all social media, there is the potential for negative interactions. How you handle them can be very impactful.

“I always suggest that when you get a negative comment on what you’re sharing … to respond with facts rather than emotion,” Brown says. “It helps you look better, helps you be more relatable and more trustworthy to the 90% of watchers that will be silent.”

The goal isn’t to “win,” but to build trust, he says.

In the end, the public only sees what we share. Misinformation thrives in silence, not in the presence of experts. When agriculture professionals speak openly, transparently and compassionately on social media, the industry benefits.

“When we tell the truth, ranching wins,” Brown says. “That’s all you have to do. You don’t have to come up with a story. All you have to do is tell the truth.”

For these professionals, transparency means allowing the public to see the core values of their work, a view Nagorske summarizes by focusing on veterinarians’ dedication.

“I want them to take away the deep rooted passion that veterinarians have for animals. Even if it’s livestock. Even if the end goal is to consume them,” Nagorske says.

Delivering Results from Start to Finish with the TN Duroc

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:25:03 GMT

In an industry where every pig and every day counts, producers need genetics that deliver consistent performance from start to finish. The TN Duroc from Topigs Norsvin has been selected for its characteristics that enable fast, uniform growth, ease of management, and measurable returns.

Early Phase Vitality: A Strong Start that Pays Off

Every successful finishing phase begins with a healthy, resilient piglet. TN Duroc offspring are known for being “easy to start in the nursery,” thanks to their adaptability and strength during the critical post-weaning transition.

Weaning is one of the most challenging periods for piglets, as they encounter a new environment and changes in feed while their immune systems are still developing. The TN Duroc’s Early Phase Vitality ensures piglets adapt quickly, start eating sooner, and maintain steady growth. That means fewer setbacks, healthier pigs, and smoother operations for producers and caretakers.

This built-in resilience reduces early health issues, lowers treatment costs, and minimizes the need for extra labor, helping producers save both time and money while maintaining performance.

High Growth, High Efficiency

Once established in the nursery, TN Duroc piglets grow fast and efficiently. On commercial farms, TN Duroc offspring have demonstrated growth rates up to 2.1% higher than comparable Duroc lines, averaging 0.02 pounds more per day.

That accelerated growth, during the nursery phase, not only helps producers hit key milestones sooner, but it also keeps groups more uniform and easier to manage. Fast-growing pigs reach market weight more quickly, improving throughput and overall farm efficiency.

Uniform growth also brings peace of mind. When every pig in the group performs consistently, producers can plan with confidence, avoiding disruptions caused by non-uniform groups.

Smooth Transition, Strong Finish

When pigs move from the nursery to grow/finish phase, TN Duroc offspring handle the transition with ease. Their strong start positions them for a seamless transition to new environments and diets, enabling consistent feed intake and steady growth.

This smooth transition reduces stress, helps maintain herd health, and supports improved feed conversion, the foundation for profitability in finishing operations. Fewer growth interruptions and health problems also mean reduced labor needs and a more efficient work environment.

As the saying goes, “well begun is half done.” With the TN Duroc, a strong beginning leads to a strong finish.

The TN Duroc Advantage

From start to finish, TN Duroc pigs are selected to make production easier, more efficient, and more profitable. Their fast growth, strong health, and consistent performance create a system that supports both animal welfare and producer success.

Key advantages include:

Smooth transitions from farrowing to finishing
Lower health and management costs
Faster growth and improved feed efficiency
Consistent, uniform groups for easier planning
High carcass quality and strong returns

When it comes to real-world results, TN Duroc delivers measurable progress. Based on the principles of Balanced Breeding and driven by Early Phase Vitality, the TN Duroc delivers results from start to finish.

Pork Industry's Largest Winter Event Coming to Des Moines

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:27:37 GMT

The pork industry’s largest winter gathering returns to Des Moines in January. The Iowa Pork Producers Association invites pork producers and allied industry professionals to attend the 2026 Iowa Pork Congress, January 21–22 at the Iowa Events Center.

The annual event features 225+ exhibitors, a strong educational program, and two days of networking and recognition for Iowa’s pork industry.

On Wednesday, Jan. 21, the trade show runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. alongside the Student Research Poster Contest. The educational lineup includes:

“Coffee Chat with Eldon: DNR Rules, Court Cases, and Animal Welfare Laws” with Eldon McAfee
Keynote: “Cultivating a Mindset of Growth and Grit in Agriculture” with retired Brigadier General Mike Oster
“Pork, Policy, Politics, and Populism” with entrepreneur and investor Al Tank
“Economic and Livestock Market Outlook” with Dr. Lee Schulz, Ever.Ag

Wednesday evening features the annual Iowa Pork Congress Banquet, highlighted by the Master Pork Awards Program, which honors industry leaders for outstanding efficiency, innovation, and excellence. The banquet will also celebrate the future of the industry with the announcement of the 2026 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team winners, including the crowning of the new Iowa Pork Queen.

On Thursday, Jan. 22, the trade show continues 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the poster contest display open during show hours, and the convention concluding at 2 p.m. Educational sessions include:

“What’s in the Future for an Iowa Pork Producer - Artificial Intelligence, Data Utilization and Emerging Technologies”
“The Many Moments of a Hog – Let’s Get Creative” (pork fabrication and discussion) with Kari Underly, founder of Range Meat Academy

New for 2026, Iowa Pork Congress will also offer Spanish-language technical training sessions, expanding access to education for pork production employees.

“Iowa Pork Congress is where our industry connects, learns, and moves forward together,” said Aaron Juergens, IPPA president. “From policy and markets to hands-on production and leadership, this event delivers real value for producers and our partners.”

Registration and more information is available at IowaPorkCongress.org .

Recognizing and Supporting Someone with Signs of Suicide

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:31:23 GMT

By Carly Sandoval and Lisa Tams, Michigan State University Extension

Some people believe that talking about suicide will increase the likelihood that a person will attempt suicide. This is not true. What is true is that while suicide is hard to talk about, talking about suicide can help to save lives. Having conversations about suicide increases awareness of signs that someone might have thoughts of suicide and gives people the opportunity to intervene and connect to professional help. Additionally, talking with someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts can encourage them to express their feelings, which may bring a sense of relief and help them feel cared for.

Definitions

Suicide is a type of death that is caused by a person injuring themselves with the intent to die by that injury. Suicidal acts differ from intentional self-injury carried out without the intent to die. In some cases, a person may accidentally die from non-suicidal self-injury—such as taking too much of a drug or medication, or cutting too deeply—despite not intending a lethal outcome. These deaths are not classified as suicide, as the primary intent was not to end one’s life.

Sometimes a person will injure themselves with the intent to die, but the injury does not result in death. This is called a suicide attempt. There are also people who will think about suicide but have not acted upon those thoughts. This is called suicidal ideation. Suicidal ideation is a risk factor for attempting suicide or dying by suicide, but not all people who experience suicidal ideation will act on their thoughts.

Statistics

4% of U.S. adults and 18% of U.S. children experience suicidal ideation.
6% of U.S. adults and about 8% of U.S. adolescents attempt suicide each year.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death for U.S. teenagers aged 15 to 19 years.
One person dies by suicide every 11 minutes in the U.S.
Over the last two decades, suicide rates have increased by over 30% in the U.S.

Risk Factors for Suicide

There are certain demographic characteristics that increase the risk that someone may die by suicide. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, women are more likely than men to make a suicide attempt. However, men die by suicide at a rate that is 4 times higher than women. In 2023, adults 75 years and older had the highest rates of suicide. Lastly, adults who identify as gay, lesbian and bisexual report more suicide ideas and attempts than their heterosexual counterparts.

Aside from risk factors related to gender, age, and sexual orientation, there are psychological, social, and environmental risk factors that increase the likelihood that someone may die by suicide. These include having a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and/or a substance use challenge, especially when untreated. Additionally, individuals with a personal history or family history of suicide and a history of exposure to childhood adversity are at increased risk.

There is no single risk factor that can predict whether someone will act on their suicidal thoughts or ideas. According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is a difficult public health issue to understand and occurs because of a combination of negative life conditions and personal risk factors. However, understanding the conditions that increase risk allows for more informed, compassionate and effective interventions, which may improve our ability to support people in crisis and prevent loss of life.

Warning Signs of Suicide

There are several warning signs that may indicate someone is thinking about suicide. Not everyone will exhibit all these signs, and some may be subtle or overlooked. However, being familiar with them is crucial for prevention. Recognizing these warning signs can help identify when someone may be in distress and guide the appropriate level of support and intervention.

Here is a list of concerning warning signs that should not be overlooked:

Talking about suicide, death or dying, even in passive ways.
Taking preparatory actions, such as writing good-bye notes, making a will or giving away belongings.
Increasing the use of drugs, alcohol and other substances.
Losing interest in and withdrawing from personal hobbies and work obligations.
Having a more disheveled appearance, such as appearing not to have bathed or groomed, especially if that’s not typical for the person.
Displaying severe, aggressive, sudden and erratic changes in behavior, such as someone who never takes risks suddenly engaging in reckless behavior.
Experiencing a drastic increase in difficulties with eating and sleeping, in ways that are not normal for the person.
Having a new obsession with death and dying, such as drawing pictures about violence and destruction, constantly bringing up the death of loved ones or celebrities or incessantly writing, talking or fantasizing about death in any manner.

Supporting Someone with Thoughts of Suicide

It can be hard to talk about suicide, especially with someone you care about. Even though it is difficult, it is important to remember that the person thinking about suicide can feel better and is more likely to get help if someone they know suggests it.

Mental Health First Aid USA provides some guidelines for helping a person who is thinking about suicide.

To keep the person safe, ask if the person has a plan and if they have the things they need to carry out their plan. If the person says that they do, call for help immediately. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or 911 are both good options to get the person help. Also, do not leave someone who is considering death by suicide alone.
If the person does not have a plan, and is only having general thoughts about suicide, you can still call 988 for help. You can also continue to talk with the person, asking open-ended questions and listening to them. Make sure not to dismiss or minimize the person’s thoughts and feelings.
Tell the person that you care about them and explain that they don’t have to feel this way forever. You can offer options to connect the person with support, like talking to their doctor, going to therapy, or trying a support group.
Remember, you do not need to put yourself in danger to help a person who is thinking about suicide. Do your best to help the person feel supported and safe, but if you can’t do that by yourself then call 911 or another professional for help.

By talking with a person about their thoughts of suicide, it is possible to help save their life. To learn more about assisting people with a mental health challenge or thoughts of suicide, consider becoming a certified Mental Health First Aider.

If you are having thoughts about suicide, consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, coworker, sponsor, mentor, neighbor, doctor, spiritual leader or mental health professional. You can also call, text or chat with a crisis counselor by dialing 988 or going to the 988 website . You are not alone, you matter, and help is available.

Read More:
Saying Goodbye to Dad: A Farmer’s Journey with Grief

A Farm Girl’s Miraculous Journey from Death to Hope

Don’t Break, Build: A Farmer’s Playbook for Taking Control of Your Mind

Engineering Airflow without Compromise

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:26:23 GMT

For decades, the swine industry has depended on traditional induction motors; however, their performance can falter under pressure. When faced with heat, wind resistance, or fluctuating loads, they tend to slow down, resulting in reduced airflow right when it’s needed most.

The AirStorm Pro™ Fan line eliminates this compromise. Built around the innovative Omni-EC™ direct drive motor, it combines advanced technology with premium components to deliver powerful airflow, exceptional reliability, and precise control—ensuring efficient, reliable ventilation performance when it matters.

Unlike traditional motors, the Omni-EC™ motor continuously monitors speed and thermal conditions in real-time, automatically adjusting torque and speed to maintain optimal performance across a wide speed range (400-700 RPM). Seamless integration with thermostats and sensors enables precise fan speed control that responds to your barn’s changing needs, while built-in overload protection prevents the failures that plague outdated induction fans in extreme conditions. The result: powerful airflow, exceptional durability, and energy-efficient ventilation that keeps your livestock comfortable and productive. Omni-EC™ motor technology isn’t just an incremental improvement—it’s engineering designed to perform without compromise.

Hog Slat, Inc.

(Hog Slat, Inc.)

Advanced Motor Technology: Built-In Intelligence for Peace of Mind

Powered by Leeson motors and protected by an industry-leading 3-year full replacement warranty (non-prorated) on the Omni-EC™ motor and drive combination, the AirStorm Pro represents advanced motor technology engineered for reliability.

Built-In Protection. The motor continuously monitors speed and thermal conditions, automatically adjusting to prevent overheating and ensure reliable airflow when you need it most. Built-in overload protection safeguards against the failures that plague outdated induction direct drive fans in extreme conditions.

No Remote Drive. With the drive embedded directly in the motor, installation is streamlined, and potential failure points are reduced. No remote drive means fewer components to maintain and greater long-term reliability.

Efficient Power. Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) reduces the noise and current fluctuations typical of standard VFD/ECM systems. The result is an amperage draw comparable to traditional belt-driven motors, enabling smaller electrical circuit requirements without sacrificing performance.

Extended Lifespan. Soft start and stop features reduce mechanical stress on components, while intelligent thermal management prevents burnout from heat and pressure. These protections work together to maximize motor lifespan and minimize downtime.

Real Rewards Where It Matters

ECM motors deliver 10-20% greater efficiency than standard induction motors at full speed, with efficiency gains reaching up to 30% at reduced speeds. This translates directly to lower operating costs while maintaining the precise airflow control your operation demands.

“Better airflow means more consistent temperatures, reduced stress, and better pig performance,” says Ross Thompson, Hog Slat Ventilation Director. “ECM motors give us the ability to fine-tune ventilation like never before—delivering the right amount of airflow, exactly when it’s needed.”

Upgrade without starting from scratch

You don’t need to start from scratch. Retrofit kits make upgrading to Omni-EC™ technology straightforward and cost-effective. You get all the benefits of advanced ECM performance—precision control, energy savings, and built-in intelligence—without replacing your entire ventilation system.

In an industry where margins matter and reliability is non-negotiable, the AirStorm Pro delivers ventilation engineering designed to perform without compromise—giving you the power, efficiency, and control to optimize your barn environment and maximize productivity.

For more information, contact your local Hog Slat salesperson HS/GPE/ESPS/SAS Sales Representatives Contact Information | Hog Slat