October Pork Month Tribute

10-01-2014 in Communications Internship

By: Adelai Swanson, CSIF Intern

October is more than just a month filled with carving pumpkins, watching football and trick-or-treating. It is also a time to celebrate the hard work of Iowa’s hog farmers with Pork Month.

The state of Iowa has over 6,000 hog farms in operation and the pork industry makes a significant impact on the state’s economy. Iowa ranks as the largest pork producing state in the nation raising over 30 million hogs each year, which is nearly one third of the nation’s hogs. The industry creates over 60,000 jobs and accumulates 4.1 billion dollars in economic growth.

Pork producers are not only dedicated to raising high-quality, wholesome products, but also to being good environmental stewards. Over the past fifty years, hog farmers have reduced their water usage by 41% and their land usage by 78%. Consequently, they have reduced their carbon footprint by 35%.

“Iowa’s hog farmers are leading the nation in pork production while keeping environmental stewardship at the forefront of their operations,” CSIF Executive Director, Brian Waddingham, said. “We are proud to work side-by-side with Iowa’s pork producers. Their hard work is reflected through their dedication and passion to raising superior pork products.”

Join us in supporting Iowa’s pork producers and add pork to your menu this month.

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