The Texas Pork Industry Conference was held in San Marcos, Texas, from May 17 to 18. Members and youth participated in educational seminars and networking sessions and then celebrated the achievements of fellow members and industry partners.
On the evening of Friday, May 17, the second Certified Texas Best Genetic Offering kickstarted the weekend off to a great start. With 20 of the Certified Texas Bred Registry’s top breeders participating, the auction averaged $6,300. Commission proceeds from the Certified Texas Best sale generate scholarship money for the new Scholars of Honor program.
Saturday, May 18, was an exciting day for both adults and youth. Youth participated in multiple sessions led by the Texas Pork Junior Ambassadors. Participants took part in educational seminars learning about the validation system led by Tammy Glasscock, as well as an in-depth talk about veterinary science from Dr. Daniel Hendrickson. Later that afternoon, the Texas Pork Junior Ambassadors taught youth members about the functions of our association and enjoyed a competitive game of dodgeball to round out the day.
For the adults, Dr. Daniel Hendrickson started the morning with an in-depth conversation about vaccination protocols, swine health, and traceability efforts. Emily Miller, client success manager from Showpig.com, discussed the endless opportunities that Showpig.com has to offer, including the launch of their new website. Following lunch, sessions were presented by the members of the Texas Animal Health Commission and the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC). Craig Boelling, vice president of resource development, and Lucy Russell, manager of producer engagement for the National Pork Producers Council discussed NPPC’s current efforts on the Hill. Dr. TR Lansford, deputy executive director, and assistant state veterinarian, discussed swine health efforts and guidelines from the Texas Animal Health Commission.
In addition, the annual meeting for the association was held in which members were elected to serve on the TPPA board of directors. Peter Baumert, Doug Alderson, Cory Rains, and Jeremy Rounsavall were reelected, along with newly elected board member, Ryan Balser.
To conclude the Texas Pork Industry Conference, we celebrated the achievements of many during the awards banquet. Along with celebrating our top CTBR awards and scholarship recipients, the association honored those who have gone above and beyond for the pork industry.
Industry Service: Tammy Glasscock & Diedre Williams, AdamsFab LLC., and Dr. Jeff Weigert
Special Recognition: Cody Reep
Rising Star Award: Jarrot Foote
Texas Heritage Pig Production Award: Berger Farms
Producer of the Year: Josh & Carrie Brockman, Brockman Farms
Texas Pork Hall of Honor: Rory Duelm