Duane Stateler admits he never thought he’d be the president of an organization, let alone a national one. Serving as the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) president this past year has been a joy and privilege that he doesn’t take for granted.
“Representing our producers and helping tell our story to the world has been interesting and eventful,” he says. “I’ve never found anyone who wasn’t willing to listen. I hope I have been able to make some improvements in getting our story out there.”
Securing a Future for His Grandchildren
For this Ohio pig farmer, his motivation to do what he does stems from his family.
“My momentum comes from knowing my grandsons want to follow in their dad’s footsteps,” Stateler says. “I want to make sure there’s a thriving industry for them to become a part of someday.”
When Anthony, his son, wanted to return to the family farm, Stateler knew they were going to have to diversify and expand their hog operation.
“Right after he made that decision to come back, the ballot initiative in Florida to stop using gestation stalls came about,” Stateler says. “That lit a fire under me. Here I had my son wanting to return, and one of the things that was going to stand in the way of that would be regulations determined by people who don’t understand livestock production. And here we are, 20-plus years later, still facing similar challenges.”
Heroes Behind the Scene
One of the things he appreciates most about the opportunity he’s had to see what happens behind the scenes at NPPC is understanding how many decisions never make it to the headlines.
“There’s a lot of work NPPC does behind the scenes to help producers,” he says. “We have an incredible staff. They are just amazing and I believe that sets us apart. A lot of the conversations they have with legislators result in language that you see later on.”
As he reflects back on the past year, he’s proud of the environmental progress that’s taken place with air and water quality standards. But the reality of consolidation is one concern he doesn’t see going away.
“We are becoming more and more integrated,” Stateler says. “How does a small family farm exist anymore? We’ve seen tremendous change, especially over the last 25 years, but I’m concerned about where it goes. We have to keep working to help farmers of all sizes succeed.”
Your Voice is Needed
Although he plans to step back and make more time for his family, he will remain engaged as NPPC’s current past president for a year and then he will serve on the trade committee.
“Being president of NPPC is a challenge, but it’s a challenge you look forward to and that you’ve been preparing for,” Stateler says. “I like the way we step up and gradually come into this seat.”
He will miss the early morning calls with Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO, and the loss of so much information.
“I think the most Bryan and I talked to each other in one day was seven times,” Stateler laughs. “The board makes the decisions. However, as president, when something happens we discuss issues and how to implement staff to prepare information to the board to make decisions.”
He encourages future NPPC presidents to embrace the unique perspective they bring to the table.
“Don’t be afraid to be yourself,” Stateler says. “Each of us has different aspects and qualities. It’s good for people to see that our leaders are individuals with differing backgrounds, but that we have the same goal in mind to represent all pork producers across the country.”
