Summer can be one of the most challenging times of year for raising and exhibiting pigs. Hot temperatures, humidity, nutrition concerns, transportation stress, and maintaining overall health all play a role in keeping pigs comfortable and performing at their best. While heat stress is an important concern, successful summer swine management also depends on proper feeding, clean water, ventilation, health …
By Cash Martin, TPPA Intern The Texas Pork Producers Association (TPPA) recently welcomed the first cohort of participants in the inaugural ChopTalk Advocacy Academy, a new leadership and advocacy initiative funded by a grant from the National Pork Board. The program is designed to equip youth exhibitors with the skills and experiences needed to become influential voices for the pork …
Colton Gober Colton Gober is a graduating senior from Haskell, Texas, who plans to attend Texas Tech University and major in animal science. During his high school years, he was heavily involved in Texas 4-H and FFA through serving in officer positions and on competitive teams. Gober plans to continue his pursuit of being a veterinarian like his father and …
Protecting herd health starts with staying informed. With summer jackpots and farrowing season in full swing, it is crucial that Texas swine producers and exhibitors are educated on risks, management practices, surveillance, and treatment if a case were to occur. We’re sharing proactive educational resources on New World screwworm (NWS) to help swine producers understand the pest, recognize potential signs, …
The Texas Pork Producers Association hosted the 2026 Texas Pork Youth Retreat at Texas A&M University, bringing together 88 youth from across Texas and nearly doubling attendance from the inaugural retreat last year. Over the weekend, participants took part in leadership activities, hands-on learning, and opportunities to connect with other youth interested in the pork industry. Throughout the weekend, campers …
The Texas Pork Producers Association (TPPA) announces the recipients of the 2026 industry awards, recognizing outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing the pork industry across the state. Each year, TPPA honors individuals and operations that demonstrate excellence in production, advocacy, youth mentorship, and consumer engagement. 2026 Award Recipients Dr. David Frazier of Stephenville, Texas, is receiving the Industry Service …
The Certified Texas Bred Registry (CTBR) Program, an initiative of the Texas Pork Producers Association, proudly announces that the program has awarded $58,500 in scholarships to outstanding graduating seniors in 2026. This investment signifies the association’s commitment to supporting the next generation of swine industry leaders. The scholarships are distributed through three key programs: CTBR Foundation Female Scholarship and Grant: …
Lubbock, Texas — The Certified Texas Bred Registry (CTBR) is proud to honor a highly successful 2026 show season, highlighted by impressive achievements from exhibitors and breeders across the state of Texas. Premium Advantage Show Feeds is the official media sponsor of the Certified Texas Bred Registry. Throughout the 2026 season, CTBR-registered barrows made a powerful impact in the show …
Between shows, one of the most important biosecurity steps an exhibitor can take is cleaning and disinfecting equipment. With more than 27,000+ pigs involved in exhibitions in Texas each year, small actions, like how you handle a brush or feeder, can make a big difference in protecting pig health and preventing disease spread. Diseases can be transmitted not only through …
LUBBOCK, TEXAS — The Texas Pork Producers Association (TPPA) is proud to launch the ChopTalk Advocate Academy, a dynamic youth advocacy program designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to communicate the story of the Texas pork industry to consumers across the state. The ChopTalk Advocate Academy recognizes the passion and authenticity that Texas youth who …
In an industry filled with opportunity, possibly one of the greatest is to have the chance to create long-lasting memories with those that we hold close. For Jarrot and Dwight Foote, raising show pigs together created the foundation to find value in something far greater than they imagined. “The biggest reason we started raising pigs is because it gave us …
Young livestock exhibitors often learn hard work, responsibility, and creativity in the barn. For three students, those lessons turned into businesses aimed at helping other showmen and spreading a message they believe in. Kamlynn Mason, Weston Lackey, and Archer Albracht each started ventures tied to the show industry: 2nd Gear Show Brushes, Light in the Barn, and Stinger Show Sticks. …