More than 900 pork producers and allied industry gathered in Wisconsin Dells for the 27th annual National Pork Industry Conference (NPIC) on July 9-12. Speakers tackled topics ranging from animal activism and consumer demand to swine health and Prop 12. Here are some insights and perspectives that stood out during the discussions.
“Don’t make changes with long tails. Know what’s on the horizon.” – Matt Anderson, DVM with Suidae Health and Production, in “Accelerating Through the Curve: A Fireside Chat with Resiliency Experts”
“Let me help you to avoid making the same mistakes as the Europeans. You have to shape the new conditions for production. You have the chance to make your production more efficient. Don’t lose the competitive advantage in the U.S. There is a silver lining – you hold the future in your hands. Seize the opportunity.” – Stefan Sutor, owner of Sutor Cattle and Fresh Meat in “Swine Production in Germany: Under Siege”
“You’ll be tempted to take shortcuts, especially when times are tough. Doing the little things the right way is how champions are made.” – Ross Bernstein, best-selling sports author in “The Champions Code: Building Relationships Through Life Lessons of Integrity and Accountability”
“Biosecurity works, but you’ve got to change the culture of the people.” – Scott Dee, DVM, emeritus director of discovery and innovation for Pipestone Veterinary Services, in “Industry Viability: Our Responsibility to Improve Herd Health and Performance”
“Conversations with your auditors and veterinarians will be key to Prop 12 compliancy.” – Rob Brenneman, owner of Brenneman Pork, in “Prop 12 Learnings: A Discussion with Industry Experts and Producer”
“Investment in the right people is the highest ROI in the business.” – Bradley Wolter, CEO of The Maschhoffs, in “Accelerating Through the Curve: A Fireside Chat with Resiliency Experts”
“Low-tech does not necessarily mean low-cost. Increases in construction costs are a big factor now.” – Hyatt Frobose, director and nutritionist for Jyga-Gestal, in “Prop 12 Learnings: A Discussion with Industry Experts and Producer”
“Health decisions can’t be made in the vacuum of a spreadsheet. Intangible impacts can’t be simplified into a number in Excel.” – Clayton Johnson, DVM, director of veterinary services for Carthage Veterinary Service, Ltd., in “Industry Viability: Our Responsibility to Improve Herd Health and Performance”
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