Calving Under Roof with the Pontiers

Brothers Ryan & Chad Pontier farm with their family in Clarke County near Osceola. Just a few years ago, the Pontiers decided to add a calving barn to their operation. Ryan explains the process he and Chad went through, including calling the Coalition and utilizing EQIP, as well as what their experience has been now calving under roof.

Farming for the Future

The Farming for the Future Friday Series on The Big Show resumed on February 17th. In the last two features, the focus has shifted to opportunities in the pork industry in Iowa, which will continue in the next three. Make sure to tune in on March 3rd, March 17th, and March 24th!

Farming for the PORK Future

As we shift focus, hear about opportunities for Iowa’s pork producers, how CSIF can help, and current happenings in Iowa’s pork industry.

Manure Application, Pork Leadership Academy, New Barns, & Windbreaks

Kapil Arora discusses recertification for manure application and the importance of nutrients in fertilizer. Iowa Pork shares leadership opportunities available, as well as scholarships. Third generation farmer, Doug Gruver, shares why he came back to the farm and how he is preparing for California’s Prop 12 ruling.

Listen Here

Good Neighbor Tip of the Month

Welcome Questions. Remember, two-way communication is best. Listen intently and be specific in your responses. Keep in mind that you’re not asking for permission to incorporate manure or grow your farm. Instead, you’re providing information and answering questions to make the situation a win-win for both you and your neighbor.

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Industry Updates

Producer Profitability

Positive news for cattle producers came from the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans last week, as CattleFax forecasted producer profitability in 2023. According to CattleFax, cattle producers will continue to see an improvement in margins for the next several years. Read More

Iowa Turkey Production

Iowa maintains its spot in the top 10 for turkey production throughout the state. In 2022, the northwest region of Iowa was the highest turkey producing region, with Sac County leading the way. Total 2022 Iowa turkey production was 11,450,511. View more details here.

Iowa’s Best Burger

Iowa’s beef producers are asking their fellow Iowans to help find Iowa’s Best Burger in 2023. In this year’s quest, the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) and the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) are encouraging you to nominate your favorite burger, whether it’s gourmet or down-home style. Continue Reading

Upcoming Events

Farming for the Future Friday with Iowa Pork

March 3rd // The Big Show

Acres of Opportunity Conference

March 11 // Iowa State University

Acres of Opportunity is an Iowa Farm Bureau-inspired conference focusing on crop, livestock and business diversification opportunities for new and existing farmers.

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Farming for the Future Friday with Iowa Pork

March 17 // The Big Show

Iowa Cattlemen’s Cattle Producer Forum: Tama/Benton County

March 21 // Keystone, IA

Farming for the Future Friday with Iowa Pork

March 24th // The Big Show

Iowa Cattlemen’s Cattle Producer Forum: Jasper County

March 28 // Newton, IA