February 2017 producer connection

THE FINAL FEED WITH A BURST OF

POWER

Your go-to source for seedstock genetics & jr. gilts SURGE 3-1

Surge X The Journey Bred by Chuck Olsen, SD ‘17 Fort Worth Stock Show Champion YorkSIRE Gilt

Shotgun

Shotgun rider x superman Bred by Cornerstone ventures, tx

Don’t miss out on an excellent set for world pork expo, Summer type conference and the State Fair of Texas.

70-80 pedigreed litters!

Cyclone 18-5

Cyclone x flash drive Bred by Hirschfeld, NE

Chuck Real | 210.827.7351 Russell Real | 210.216.2688 Marion, Texas Realhogfarms.com

‘17 Fort Worth Stock Show Reserve Champion Berkshire Gilt

Kyle is building a great young sowherd himself and will have several spring litters of this quality

Kyle or Daryl Real | 972.898.6657 Krum, Texas erbarlivestock@gmail.com

‘16 Houston Livestock Show Reserve Champion Berkshire Barrow

God Bless

n w o T s i th Come see us in Dalhart, Texas

DOWN N FLAMES CROSSBRED | STRESS NEGATIVE

OKLAHOMA BREAKDOWN X CROSSBONES BRED BY YOUNG LIVESTOCK SEMEN: $200/DOSE

HONKY TONK KID CROSSBRED | STRESS NEGATIVE THE DUKE X TAPP DATT SEMEN: $250/DOSE

WASTIN’ GAS CROSSBRED | STRESS CARRIER

BIG AFFAIR X BIG AFFAIR (SKY’S THE LIMIT’S SISTER) BRED BY WD SWINE FARM SEMEN: $200/DOSE

WWW.CORNERSTONEVENTURESLLC.COM

CHANCE WALDRIP | 806.341.5764 DALHART, TX 1

For Breeders

By Breeders For the Youth Certified Texas Bred Registry How Does Participation Benefit you?

Additional Premiums

• $100 premium is awarded to individuals exhibiting a CTBR Class Champion in each class of the barrow shows at the State Fair of Texas, Fort Worth Stock Show, San Antonio Livestock Exposition, Star of Texas and the Houston Livestock Show.

• Premium money is distributed to all placing barrows at the San Angelo Stock Show in addition to buckles and trophies awarded to exhibitors of Champion and Reserve Champion breeds.

• Over $46,000 will be awarded during this show season to Texas 4-H and FFA students. Will you be participating?

Participate in the San Angelo Stock Show

• The CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Show & Select Sale and the San Angelo Barrow Show is only open to youth exhibiting pigs registered in the Certified Texas Bred Registry program.

• Gilts selected for the sale brought an average of nearly $2,600 back to each exhibitor in 2016.

Scholarship Opportunities

• $42,500 has been awarded to Texas students since 2011 through the CTBR program.

• In 2016, three scholarships were awarded at $2,500 each.

Make sure to submit your application this year!

Production Grant Program

• Provide financial assistance to deserving 4-H and FFA students at a minimum amount of $2,500 who are continuing their involvement in swine production through establishing their own breeding program.

How to participate?

• Buy your showpigs from a CTBR breeder!

• Exhibit your CTBR pig at a Texas Major Show or the State Fair of Texas!

• Become a TPPA member for additional benefits!

MoorMan’s ShowTec Official Title Sponsor

3

What’s in this issue THE FINAL FEED WITH A BURST OF

P O W ER

On the cover The final weeks leading up to the show will make or break you. Whether your pig needs a little extra cover, a shot more shape or a fresher look, turn to Moorman’s ShowTec feed to give you the winning advantage in the showring and drive you to success. Anyone of their representatives would be happy to visit with you about tailoring a feed program to match your needs.

TEXAS PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

4

Market Report Industry News

60

Capitol Report Cut Your Own Save a Lot

Kevin Thomas

Industry Awards Info Membership Application

Producer Spotlight

70 Zero Tolerance on Drug Testing

CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Sale Industry Conference Info Summer Internship Spring Buyers Guide Form Advertising Information

CER

VFD Q&A

D FIE TI

TEXAS BRED RE

GI

RY ST

6 8 12 16 20 21 22 23 24 28 36 37 47 49 50 54 56 67 74 84

CTBR Scholarship Opportunity National Western Results Texas Pork Camp Info Final Drive 2016 Weight Breaks Collected Advantage Semen Auction CTBR Infograph Advertisers Index

76 CTBR Sponsors

40 Carson Read Youth Spotlight

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2017

TPPA’S MISSION “Education. Advocacy. Promotion.

The Texas Pork Producers Association is dedicated to the advancement of a sustainable and profitable pork industry.”

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President - Jimmy Hayes, Port Lavaca President Elect - Corby Barrett, Perryton Vice President - Doug Schaefer, Garden City Immediate Past President - Kenneth Kensing, Fredericksburg Executive Member - Stanley Young, Lubbock Executive Member - Wayne Harman, Perryton Executive Member - Jay Winter, Lubbock

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kurt Kelso, Seguin David Kempen, San Angelo Barret Klein, Boerne Cody McCleery, Weatherford Chuck Real, Marion

Erwin Schwartz, San Angelo Josh Krohn, Lamesa Denny Belew, Tahoka Peter Baumert, Dalhart Shannon Barbee, Hamlin

STAFF Executive Vice President Brandon Gunn bgunn@texaspork.org Director of Communications Cassidy Smith csmith@texaspork.org Magazine Contributors Kayla Wilkins Allison Burenheide Dylan Felger

UPCOMING EVENTS FEBRUARY 2017 2-3

Fort Worth Barrow Show

8

San Antonio Swine Skillathon

8

4-H Day at the Capitol

9-10

San Antonio Junior Breeding Gilt Show

11

San Antonio Open Breeding Gilt Show

11-12

San Angelo Breeding Gilt & CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Show

14

CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Sale, San Angelo

15-16

San Angelo Barrow Show

18

National FFA Week

19-20

San Antonio Barrow Show Wave 1

22-23

San Antonio Barrow Show Wave 2

23

FFA Day at the Capitol

MARCH 2017 1

TPPA Summer Internship Applications Due

1-3

National Pork Forum, Atlanta, GA

1-4

NSR Southwest Type Conference, Belton

9-10

Houston Junior Breeding Gilt Show

15

Spring Buyers Guide Forms Due

19-20

Houston Barrow Show Wave 1

20

Producer Connection Advertisement Deadline

21-22

Rodeo Austin Barrow Show

22-23

Houston Barrow Show Wave 2

PRODUCER CONNECTION Producer Connection is the official publication of the Texas Pork Producers Association and is published by the Texas Pork Producers Association. All inquiries should be directed to the TPPA office.

ADVERTISEMENT INFORMATION To place an ad or for advertising rates and guidelines, please contact Texas Pork Producers Association at (512) 262-0595 or communications@texaspork.org.

FIND US Facebook

Texas Pork Producers Association 151-A Kirkham Circle Kyle, TX 78640 512.262.0595 :: Phone 512.262.0582 :: Fax tppa@texaspork.org texaspork.org Programs are made available to pork producers without regard to race, color, sex, religion or national origin. TPPA is an equal opportunity employer.

TEXAS PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

Twitter

texaspork.org

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Announcing an Upcoming

ONLINE SEMEN AUCTION benefitting TPPA noncheckoff programs.

Market News Gainesville Livestock Auction January 17, 2017

#1 Butchers (230-270 lbs.) - $0.55 - $0.62/lb. #2 Butchers (220-280 lbs.) - $0.45 - $0.55/lb.

Sows (<400 lbs.) - $0.10 - $0.38/lb.

Sows (400-500 lbs.) - $0.20 - $0.28/lb.

Sows (500-700 lbs.) - $0.20 - $0.28/lb.

Feeder Pigs (25-90 lbs.) - $0.10 - $0.45/lb.

Feeder Pigs (100-175 lbs.) - $0.35 - $0.58/lb.

Boars (<200 lbs.) - $0.25 - $0.30/lb.

Boars (200-300 lbs.) - $0.10 - $0.28/lb.

Boars (300+ lbs.) - $0.08 - $0.12/lb.

Brenham Livestock Auction January 20, 2017

Last year we had our first online semen auction and it was a huge sucess!

Thank you to all the bidders who participated.

Because of these funds, we're able to better serve your interests as members of the Texas Pork Producers Association.

DETAILS ON PAGE 67!

Butchers 1-2 Grade (230-260 lbs.) - $0.45 - $0.50/lb.

Butchers 2-3 Grade (225-275 lbs.) - $0.35 - $0.40/lb.

Butchers 3-4 Grade (225-275 lbs.) - $0.32 - $0.35/lb.

Packer Sows 1-2 Grade (550-700 lbs.) - $0.24 - $0.28/lb.

Packer Sows 2-3 Grade (350-500 lbs.) - $0.20 - $0.24/lb.

Packer Sows 3-4 Grade (250-500 lbs.) - $0.18 - $0.20/lb.

Lightweight Boars - $15.00 - $20.00/hd.

Feeder Pigs 1-2 Grade (40-80 lbs.) - $0.50 - $0.70/lb.

Feeder Pigs 2-3 Grade (40-80 lbs.) - $0.40 - $0.50/lb.

Seguin Cattle Company January 11, 2017

#1 Butchers - $0.45 - $0.54/lb. #2 Butchers - $0.40 - $0.42/lb.

Feeder Pigs - $0.75 - $0.85/lb.

Sows - $0.24 - $0.40/lb.

Feeder Shoats - $0.50 - $0.55/lb.

AMS National Daily Hog Report

Be sure to get

Elite Genetics and support TPPA!

6

January 24, 2017

Top Hogs - $49.33/lb.

Watch your e-mail for the weekly Market Report

Foundation Gilt

We are proud to announce the donor oF the

CTBR

Harman Farms “Focused on Success”

Wayne and Leslie Harman of Harman Farms, Perryton, are selflessly providing one of their top females to be offered as the Texas Pork Producers Association’s Certified Texas Bred Registry 2017 Foundation Gilt. The gilt will be showcased during the 2017 San Angelo Livestock Show’s CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Show and will be sold during the CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Sale on February 14.

As a national leader in producing high quality show pigs and breeding stock and a perennial CTBR Top Ten Breeder, the Harman’s enthusiasm and interest in providing one of their best for the benefit of Texas youth is greatly appreciated. No matter how many banners they hang and buckles they win, Wayne and Leslie find molding and teaching young people to be the most rewarding part of raising hogs. Without hesitation, they gladly accepted the opportunity and responsibility in donating a tremendous foundation gilt; they are true testaments to the meaning “going above and beyond.” Wayne and Leslie have set aside a group of their best keeper gilts to be considered in selecting this year’s CTBR 2017 Foundation Gilt. The Harman CTBR Foundation Gilt will be offered as sale lot #3 during the 2017 San Angelo Livestock Show’s CTBR Texas Stars Gilt Sale.

The TPPA’s CTBR Foundation Gilt Scholarship/Production Grant Award Program began in 2010 with funds received from the sale of the Foundation Gilt provided by Kyle Stephens.

Past gilt donors are Mike Clay, Wintex Farms, Daniel Schley, Mason Livestock, Walser Farms/Hot Rod Genetics, and Cornerstone Ventures LLC. Proceeds from the sale of these gilts are used to provide a foundation for support for the TPPA’s CTBR Foundation Gilt Scholarship Award Program. Applications will be available in the spring of 2017. Check out the TPPA website, www.texaspork.org for details.

Official Sponsor of CTBR

Look forward to your chance to own one with the genetic power to build a herd.

A big thanks to Wayne and Leslie!

7

News from the

National Pork Board RECENT PORK BOARD HIGHLIGHTS

Domestic Marketing: During October, November and December, NPB domestic marketing reached 32 million consumers through key social media channels including Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram.

Recipe/instructional videos running less than one minute received the most views, likes and/or shares.

New research from DATASSENTIAL shows that pork is featured in the top three items on restaurant menus today. And it is not just main entrees like ham and pork loin, but now includes such items as candied bacon, pork belly and porchetta.

International Trade: The Pork Checkoff will fund the U.S. Meat Export Federation with over $6M in 2017. In January, USMEF will pull their international office directors together for a ‘Move the Meat’ meeting to define focused, key strategies to address the challenge of more product that will need to be exported in 2017 and 2018.

Science & Technology: At year end, the National Pork Board received 137 research proposals spanning 14 categories.

The Checkoff’s annual request for proposals will be reviewed by swine industry researchers and scientists, and then reviewed, prioritized and approved for funding by producers on each of the animal health and science committees at the Unified Committee meetings on February 7-9, 2017.

The NPB Welfare Committee, in cooperation with the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, updated and re-released the On-Farm Euthanasia of Swine Recommendations for the Producer, in both English and Spanish. The booklet offers guidelines and instructions for pork producers who need to euthanize sick or injured swine. The new booklet is available online at www.pork.org and in print from the Pork Store.

Communications: Results of the 2016 producer survey, show 91% of pork producers support the Pork Checkoff, up one point from 2015.

Also, 76% of producers feel the industry is heading “in the right 8

direction,” up from 70% in 2015.

The biggest concern of producers?

Increasing public understanding of where food comes from (8.57 on a 10-point scale).

Producer Services: Operation Main Street is 12-years old and, as of December 1, 2016 we booked our 9,000th speech. That is an average of 750 speeches each year. In that time, we have built strong producer relationships, answered countless consumer questions about pig farming and increased confidence in the US pork industry.

CHINESE PORK IMPORTS

U.S. exports to China in 2016 have been strong. But, pork prices in China have risen in 2016 and data shows that producers have slowed slaughter to rebuild herds, following widespread culling in 2014 when prices were low. Pork supply also has been suppressed by environmental measures introduced in 2010 that forced many smaller pig farmers out of business. Several municipal governments have begun to release frozen pork reserves to ease the pressure on prices. In 2015, the largest barrier for the U.S. to export to the Chinese market was the delisting of a small number of U.S. plants that were approved to export to that country. The pork industry worked closely with USDA’s FSIS to get the plants relisted. U.S. pork exports to China also are limited because of the ban on ractopamine.

Additionally, provisions of a bilateral agreement between China and the U.S. don’t allow U.S. processed meat exports to China. However, China recently agreed to a proposed U.S. pilot program to accept processed meat.

VFD AND GUIDANCE 213 TAKE EFFECT

New year, new regulations. As of Jan. 1, under directives from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, food animal producers no longer are allowed to use medically important (to humans) antibiotics labeled only for growth promotion, and other uses of those same antibiotics will require a veterinary prescription. FDA’s

Guidance for Industry 213 phased out the use of medically important growth promotion antibiotics, and the agency’s Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) brings feed and water uses of medically important antibiotics under veterinary supervision.

Veterinarians prescribing antibiotics need to have a veterinarian-clientpatient relationship (VCPR), which includes knowledge of the animals, visits to the farm and follow-up evaluations or care.

WORLD MEAT CONGRESS MEETING

NPB staff Becca Nepple, John Johnson and Jarrod Sutton attended the Congress in Uruguay in early November. This meeting brought together people from around the world to discuss issues such as marketing, nutrition, welfare and sustainability. The main take-away was that all interested were seeing the same challenges related to meat consumption and opposition; working together on messaging is the best approach.

NOVEMBER PORK EXPORTS SET NEW RECORD

U.S. red meat exports continued to build momentum in November, highlighted by a new monthly volume record for pork exports. Both pork and beef exports exceeded year-ago levels by more than 20 percent in both volume and value, according to statistics released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. November pork exports totaled 225,757 metric tons (mt), up 24 percent year-over-year and breaking the previous record (218,132 mt) set in October 2012. Export value was $586.8 million, up 30 percent from a year ago and the highest since May 2014. For January through November, pork export volume was up 7 percent from a year ago to 2.09 million mt, while export value increased 5 percent to $5.38 billion.

Even with U.S. pork production reaching record levels, exports are accounting for a larger share.

November export volume equated to 28 percent of total production and 23 percent for muscle cuts only

– substantial increases over the November 2015 ratios of 24 percent and 21 percent. For January through November, exports accounted for 25.5 percent of total production and 21.4 percent for muscle cuts – up from 24.2 percent and 20.9 percent, respectively, in 2015.

November export value averaged $55.09 per head slaughtered, up 19 percent year-over-year. The JanuaryNovember average was $49.63 per head, up 2 percent.

WORLD ORGANIZATION FOR ANIMAL HEALTH (OIE) REVISION TO PRRS CHAPTER

APEX provided technical support for proposed changes to the current revision initiative for the OIE PRRSV chapter which will be proposed for adoption at the 2017 annual meeting. The current PRRSV chapter only considers ‘meat products’ a safe commodity and APEX advocates that this should be changed to ‘meat and meat products from pigs that have passed antemortem inspection’.

The rationale for this is to include all edible tissues from pigs to be considered safe commodities for which veterinary authorities should not require any PRRS related conditions, regardless of the PRRS status of the exporting country, zone or compartment. APEX also supports that the current language of ‘any products made from these commodities and containing no other edible tissues from pigs’ be changed to ‘inedible tissues’ as there is no scientific evidence that products containing edible tissues (i.e. lymphatic tissue) would propose a risk to a PRRS-negative country legally importing product from a PRRS-positive country. Lastly, APEX supports leaving ‘blood by-products’ as a separate item as parameters for inspection for such products are different than for meat and meat products, which the current proposed revisions are seeking to combine. The U.S. pork industry faces PRRSV related restrictions in multiple markets including South Africa and Australia. These revisions seek to set an updated sciencebased international standard that would discredit countries who try to impose de facto ban on imported pork products from PRRSV positive nations.

MORE PIGS, LOWER PRICES, U.S. PORK INDUSTRY EXPORT POTENTIAL CRITICIZES RESEARCH An increase in pork production FINDING ON ANTIBIOTICappears to be on the way, according RESISTANT BACTERIA to the latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service.

Production is expected to increase by more than 5% in 2017 compared to 2016. Hog prices are predicted to fall 15% due to continued ample availability. Low pork prices paired with increased production will likely increase U.S. pork exports 4% higher than shipments in 2016, up to approximately 5.4 billion lb.

Exports could be in a low however, due to the rapid 20% fall of the peso in early January. Currently, Mexico is shown to be the largest foreign importer of U.S. pork, poultry and dairy products.

2016 U.S. CORN, SOYBEAN CROPS BIGGEST EVER

The USDA has confirmed record corn and soybean production in 2016. Corn totaled 15.148 billion bushels with an average yield of 174.4 bushels per acre, including new alltime high yields for Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. In 2015, U.S. corn production was 13.602 billion bushels with an average yield of 168.4 bushels per acre. Objective yield data had the third highest ear count on record for the ten states used by the USDA, with a new all-time high in Ohio. Planted area was 94.004 million acres, compared to 88.019 million last year, and harvested area was 86.748 million acres, compared to 80.753 million the year before.

Soybeans totaled 4.307 billion bushels with an average yield of 52.1 bushels per acre, with new record yields in the ten Brownfield states.

2015 production was 3.926 billion bushels with an average yield of 48.0 bushels per acre. Final average pod counts were higher than a year ago in the 11 states used for objective yield data, including increases of more than 150 pods per 18 square feet in Indiana, Missouri, and Nebraska.

Planted area in 2016 was a record 83.433 million acres, compared to 82.650 million in 2015, and harvested area was a record 82.736 million acres, compared to 81.732 million a year ago.

A recent research paper from the Ohio State University detailing the discovery of an antibiotic-resistant gene from a bacteria found in one farrowing barn has been criticized

by NPPC and the National Pork Board, which said it would analyze the initial findings. In a statement issued, the National Pork Board said the most important “takeaway” from the study is that the U.S. pork supply is safe. The resistant gene was not found in a market hog, and the researchers acknowledged that it is not known how the bacteria was introduced to the barn. Although the biosecurity protocols, if any, used on the farms aren’t known, the fact that the resistant bacteria was found only in one area of the barn indicates that current internal biosecurity measures are effective, the National Pork Board pointed out. “To draw the conclusions this study draws without further validation, replication and research is an overreach from the data and, in the worst case, is sensational in nature,” said the National Pork Board in its statement.

Hogs farms across the country are voluntarily offering access to Ohio State University’s Public Health Preparedness for Infectious Diseases Program to conduct research so that pork producers can better understand emerging disease issues.

The National Pork Board has responsibility for Checkoff-funded research, promotion and consumer information projects and for communicating with pork producers and the public. Through the Pork Checkoff, U.S. pork producers and importers pay $0.40 per $100 of value when pigs are sold and when pigs or pork products are brought into the United States. The Pork Checkoff funds national and state programs in advertising, consumer information, retail and food service, marketing, production improvement, technology, swine health, pork safety and environmental management.

For more information on Checkofffunded programs, pork producers can call the Pork Checkoff Services at (800) 456-7675 or check the website at www.pork.org.

9

News from the

National Pork Producers Council ANOTHER ‘MIDNIGHT’ REGULATION DUMPED ON FARMERS

In another poke in the eye to agriculture, the Obama administration is set to issue a regulation that adds animal welfare standards to the nation’s organic food production law. The National Pork Producers Council will work with the Trump administration and Congress to repeal yet another “midnight” regulation.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s amendment to the Organic Food Production Act of 1990 would strictly dictate how organic producers must raise livestock and poultry, including during transport and slaughter, and specify, without scientific justification, which common practices are allowed and prohibited in organic livestock and poultry production, thereby eliminating producers’ discretion to make sound decisions about animal care. It also would establish unreasonable indoor and outdoor space requirements for animals.

The regulation was cleared by the Office of Management and Budget Wednesday, the last step before becoming final.

“This parting gift from Agriculture Secretary [Tom] Vilsack is not welcomed,” said NPPC President John Weber, a pork producer from Dysart, Iowa. “This unnecessary, unscientific midnight regulation won’t win him any friends in the agriculture community he’s apparently joining.”

Vilsack, whose last day at USDA was Friday, is expected to take over the Dairy Export Council.

HOUSE PASSES BILL TO REIGN IN REGULATIONS

The House just passed the “Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2017,” (H.R. 26), a measure that would require Congress to approve all new major regulations – ones with an economic impact of $100 million or more. Introduced by Rep. Doug Collins, R-Ga., the legislation would require federal agencies to submit their major regulations for congressional approval before they could go into effect, and both 10

chambers of Congress would be required to accept or reject a rule within 70 legislative days. The President’s signature also would be required for any of Congress’ joint resolutions of approval on a major rule to take effect. NPPC strongly supports the legislation, which the House passed on a 237-187 vote.

The bill now goes to the Senate for approval, and President-elect Donald Trump has indicated he will sign the REINS Act into law.

INFLUENCERS DISCUSS WHAT THE NEXT FARM BILL WILL LOOK LIKE

Top agricultural influencers recently met at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., to discuss the direction of the 2018 Farm Bill at a forum hosted by the Farm Foundation, a non-profit group that works for sound agricultural public policy. The panelists included Chuck Conner, President and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives; Scott Faber, Vice President of Government affairs for the Environmental Working Group; and Daren Bakst, an agricultural research policy fellow at the Heritage Foundation. Opinions varied on the next Farm Bill – from farm subsidies to government regulation. Faber voiced concern about farm conservation and stewardship practices and said that voluntary incentives alone are not working. He would like to see requirements for farmers to show basic conservation in return for subsidies and believes the key to safer food and water is through incentives and clearer regulation. Bakst sees a need for federal intervention to be passed on to state and local levels to ease regulatory burdens, specifically in the case of water conservation.

On subsidies, he believes farmers currently are insulated from market forces, shallow crop loss coverage has distorted farmers’ planting decisions, which might harm stewardship judgement, and subsidies should only cover deep crop losses for the market to hold more power. Bakst believes the nutrition title of the Farm Bill and the other titles (as a whole) can be addressed and passed individually

to achieve more reforms. Conner reminded the panel that is it quite early to begin talks on the 2018 Farm Bill, considering that some of the 2014 Farm Bill provisions have yet to be implemented. He believes the “success of the Farm Bill depends on our ability to tap into that grassroots populism” that elected the Trump administration.

USDA SEEKS DISMISSAL OF PORK. THE OTHER WHITE MEAT® LAWSUIT

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) against the agency over the sale

by NPPC to the National Pork Board of the Pork. The Other White Meat® trademarks. NPPC sold the trademarks to the Pork Board in 2006 for about $35 million. It financed the purchase over 20 years, making the Pork Board’s annual payment $3 million. The sale was an arms-length transaction with a lengthy negotiation in which both parties were represented by legal counsel, and USDA, which oversees the federal Pork Checkoff program administered by the Pork Board, approved the purchase. In 2012, HSUS, a lone Iowa farmer and the Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement filed suit against USDA, claiming the trademarks were overvalued and seeking to have the sale rescinded. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia Circuit dismissed the suit for lack of standing, but a federal appeals court in August 2015 reinstated it, sending the case back to the District Court. But before any proceedings on the merits of the lawsuit, USDA inexplicably entered into settlement talks with HSUS. USDA conducted a valuation of the trademarks, finding their current worth is between $113 million and $132 million. Despite the nearly four-fold increase in value, HSUS decided to continue its lawsuit. In its a motion for summary judgment filed with U.S. District Court

for the District of Columbia Circuit, USDA argues that the HSUS lawsuit lacks merit, is barred by the sixyear statute of limitations, that the plaintiffs failed to establish standing to file the lawsuit or show that they were harmed by the sale of the Pork.

The Other White Meat® trademarks and that the agency’s evaluation of the sale of the trademarks showed they provided significant value to the pork industry.

AG GROUPS URGE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO MAINTAIN, GROW EXPORTS MARKETS

In a letter sent to President-elect Donald Trump and Vice Presidentelect Mike Pence, 16 U.S. agricultural organizations, including NPPC, urged the incoming administration to maintain existing and to develop new export markets for U.S. agricultural products. Positive farm income would not be possible without access to foreign markets, trade promotion and trade agreements, the groups said. They pointed out that among the existing markets are Canada, China and Mexico – the three largest foreign customers of American agriculture. U.S. farm exports in fiscal 2016 were nearly $27 billion to China, more than $24 billion to Canada and almost $19 billion to Mexico. “Disrupting U.S. agricultural exports to these nations would have devastating consequences for our farmers and the many American processing and transportation industries and workers supported by these exports,” said the organizations.

The groups also expressed a desire to work with the Trump administration on new fair trade agreements that will enable U.S. farmers to compete in some of the fastest-growing markets in the world, including, for example, Japan.

LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO ADDRESS FARM LABOR NEEDS

Congressman Chris Collins, R-Clarence, and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. R-Willsboro, have introduced the Family Farm Relief Act of 2017, legislation to move the H-2A Agricultural Visa program from the Department of Labor to the Department of Agriculture. The move would better meet the unique labor needs of farmers and agricultural businesses, Collins and Stefanik said in a news release.

“The last thing our farmers need

is for the federal government to make it harder for them to make ends meet,” Collins said. “Access to a willing and available labor force is absolutely critical for the agriculture community.”

The Family Farm Relief Act of 2017 takes measures such as allowing visa applicants to fill out H-2A applications on paper or online, requiring a user-friendly online system and ending burdensome requirements on advertising and prevailing practice surveys.

The H-2A visa program does not currently provide a category for year-round livestock workers. This has caused difficulties for farms that need employees year-round. This legislation addresses this oversight, by creating an H-2A category for these workers, according to Collins and Stefank.

The legislation also allows farm cooperatives and other agricultural associations to apply for workers for their members, makes the program more workable for farming and livestock operations, and requires reporting to Congress if delays occur in the H-2A Visa application process.

SUPREME COURT TO HEAR WATERS OF THE U.S. CASE

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed on January 13 to consider whether jurisdiction rests with the federal district or appellate courts to hear a lawsuit brought by the National Pork Producers Council and dozens of other agricultural organizations, businesses and municipalities against a Clean Water Act rule that would give the government broad jurisdiction over land and water.

“The WOTUS rule is vague, overbroad and fails to let regulated parties know when their conduct violates the law,” said NPPC President John Weber, a pork producer from Dysart, Iowa. “We all want clean water, but this regulation is a big land grab that promotes growth of government and allows activists to extort and micromanage all kinds of farming and business activities.”

In their brief to the appellate court, NPPC and the other groups said EPA and the Corps of Engineers failed to reopen the public comment period after making fundamental changes to the proposed rule and withheld until after the comment period closed the scientific report on which the rule rested. The agencies also refused to conduct required economic and environmental

analyses, engaged in a propaganda campaign to promote the rule and rebuke its critics and illegally lobbied against congressional efforts to stop implementation of the rule.

LEGISLATION WOULD REPEAL ‘DEATH’ TAX

Legislation to permanently repeal the federal estate, gift and generationskipping taxes was introduced in the House at the start of the year. NPPC strongly supports the measure, known as the “Death Tax Repeal Act,” (H.R. 198), and sponsored by Mac Thornberry, R-Texas. The estate tax is levied on the net value – less an exemption – of an owner’s assets transferred at death to an heir or heirs. For the 2016 tax year, the exemptions for the estate, gift and generation-skipping taxes are $5.45 million for an individual and $10.9 million for couples. Transferred estates valued at more than those figures are subject to a maximum tax rate of 40 percent on the amount of assets above those levels. Individuals and couples who give property during their lifetimes also are subject to the top tax rate of 40 percent for “gifts” that exceed the lifetime exemption amounts. But individuals and couples for 2017 may make gifts of up to $14,000 and $28,000, respectively, without reducing their lifetime exemption amounts, which for 2017 are $5.49 million and $10.98 million. The generation-skipping tax applies to gifts and transfers in trust to, or for the benefit of, unrelated persons who are more than 37.5 years younger than the donor or to related persons more than one generation younger than the donor, such as grandchildren. The top tax rate of 40 percent is applied only if such gifts or transfers avoid the gift or estate taxes.

The National Pork Producers Council conducts public-policy outreach on behalf of its 43 affiliated state associations, enhancing opportunities for the success of U.S. pork producers and other industry stakeholders by establishing the U.S. pork industry as a consistent and responsible supplier of high-quality pork to the domestic and world markets.

The Strategic Investment Program, is the primary source of funds for the National Pork Producers Council. By enrolling in SIP, you are assured a seat at the table when decisions are made regarding the future of the U.S. pork industry.

WWW.NPPC.ORG

11

CAPITOL REPORT Many things are currently taking place on the policy front across the country. January 10 marked the start of the 85th legislative session in Texas. Although hundreds of bills were already filed prior to the Capitol’s kickoff, it is estimated that more than 6,000 bills will be submitted by our state’s legislators by the March 10 deadline.

Over the first month of the Legislature, the House and Senate committees will be appointed and everyone will be feeling out the tone for this session. While this is taking place in Austin, the more dramatic landscape change is occurring in our nation’s capital. As it pertains to issues affecting our industry, the overarching theme of 2017 for agricultural policy will be the passing of the torch from the Obama Administration to President-elect Trump. There are also some things outside of politics that have been set in motion that will reach a resolution in the coming year. Although the agricultural sector maintains a relatively low political profile and is seldom a target of partisan bickering, there are several policy issues that will likely arise in the coming year. Here are the top 10 policy issues related to agriculture that we will be keeping an eye on.

1. THE FARM BILL – The last Farm Bill demonstrated major fractures in the usual bipartisan rural-urban coalition that has historically ushered the major policy and funding measure through Congress Divide-and-conquer methods were used to attempt to separate farm programs from nutritional assistance, which delayed the Farm Bill’s passage for well over a year. The Trump transition team has indicated not pursuing a bifurcated Farm Bill. However, we can expect some members in Congress to revive their efforts to do away with the Farm Bill.

In terms of substance, I suspect we will see a more robust safety net for producers as compared to the 2014 Farm Bill. The 2014 Farm Bill was passed during a period of high commodity prices and record farm incomes. It was difficult to justify subsidies to farmers when legislators had a voter mandate to cut spending. Whether direct payments will ever be revived remains to be seen, but I predict we will see an expansion of conservation programs as a roundabout form of supply control that will shore up commodity prices.

2. WOTUS – One of the President-elect’s policy specifics for agriculture was his opposition to the “Waters of the United States” rule, which attempted to define which bodies of water fall under EPA’s and the Army Corps of Engineers’ Clean Water Act jurisdiction. A number of states are currently locked in litigation with the Obama Administration over whether this regulation was a federal overreach. The Trump Administration could decide to stop defending the litigation and undertake a rulemaking to withdraw the WOTUS Rule.

If the WOTUS Rule is withdrawn and the Trump Administration does not offer an alternative, we will revert to allowing courts to define what bodies of water constitute a “waters of the U.S.” under the Clean Water Act. It’s an imperfect system, but it’s one that has worked for over forty years.

3. NAFTA – The North American Free Trade Agreement is objectively a major success story in terms of creating jobs, opening market access for U.S. goods, and reducing costs for consumers. However, in the face of facts to the contrary, the President-elect has described NAFTA as the “worst deal ever made, by anybody, ever” and called for significant reforms to NAFTA. If those reforms cannot be achieved, he has vowed to scrap the trade deal.

With more than 20 years of experience with NAFTA, the U.S. and our trading partners have identified some areas for improvement. These were to be implemented as part of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). TPP is now dead in the water, but Trump’s election may provide an opportunity to implement the NAFTA fixes that would have been included in TPP. As President, Mr. Trump will have significant authority to alter NAFTA on a temporary basis. However, Congress will need to be on board with any long-term changes.

4. IMMIGRATION – The President-elect distinguished himself from his opponents by taking a hard stance on illegal immigration. Although we are unlikely to see a southern border wall financed by Mexico anytime soon, the voters sent a message that responded positively to Trump on immigration. Those of us in agriculture quietly acknowledge that many operations are dependent on undocumented laborers due to a deficient legal worker program. We can expect the Trump Administration and Congress to take action on immigration. Your advocates with farm and commodity organizations should carry the message to Congress about the role migrant labor plays in the domestic food system.

12

5. TRADE, IN GENERAL – Agriculture is increasingly dependent on international trade. Approximately 23% of the volume of American commodities is sold into international trade. America has a competitive advantage over most countries when it comes to efficient production of a number of crops and animal products. However, protectionist tariffs prevent American farmers from accessing some foreign markets. The TPP was supposed to improve this situation in a host of countries, but it will not come to fruition under a Trump presidency – at a steep cost to agriculture.

The President-elect has eschewed multinational trade agreements in favor of bilateral talks. We should remain optimistic that the President-elect will work to negotiate favorable bilateral trade agreements. However, the Presidentelect’s laser focus on manufacturing jobs may harm agricultural trade as collateral damage.

6. GIPSA RULES – In December, the Obama Administration released a rules package that would significantly alter how courts handle disputes involving livestock and poultry contracts. Growers that litigate against packers and poultry integrators would have a much easier bar to clear to succeed in a lawsuit. This rule is slated to go into effect on February 20, 2017. However, the Trump Administration could indefinitely delay this rule from going into effect.

7. GMO LABELING – The Trump Administration will need to push along work started by Obama’s USDA on developing a national GMO-labeling program, and in short order. Congress provided USDA with substantial discretion to determine what level of biotech content will trigger labeling requirements as well as what technologies warrant labeling. In a perfect world, GMO labeling would not be necessary. However, given that it will be required, I predict that USDA will use common sense and provide substantial flexibility for companies subject to labeling requirements.

Hopefully this will allow us to move on from the GMO labeling argument to more important matters.

8. DES MOINES WATER WORKS – One of the major environmental proxy battles between environmental activists and farming interests is being waged by a municipal wastewater treatment facility and some Iowa drainage districts. The Des Moines Water Works case has been going on for a couple years now, but it will finally see a trial this summer. At issue is whether drainage districts can be held responsible for nutrient runoff from farms, which is generally considered nonpoint source pollution under the Clean Water Act. 9. LITIGATION OF “AG GAG” LAWS – In 2017, courts in several states will decide the constitutionality of a number of laws intended to guard privacy on agricultural operations. Often derided as “ag gag” laws, these statutes impose criminal penalties for trespassers that gain employment on operations under false pretenses in order to gather video footage of conditions on farms and slaughter facilities. There is no doubt that this footage can be powerful for the cause of animal rights activists. But this footage, which is often edited, is taken by individuals who obtained employment under false pretenses and do not necessarily have an interest in promoting animal welfare and food safety on a particular operation. The courts will have to balance rights under the First Amendment with a business’ right to privacy on private property.

10. ANTITRUST – There are a number of lawsuits relating to alleged collusion and price fixing in the poultry industry. Much of this relates to how the broiler industry has adapted to increased feed costs in the wake of the ethanol mandate.

The plaintiffs allege that poultry integrators worked together to reduce broiler populations to prop up prices in the face of high feed costs. The allegations are based on participation in data sharing programs that allow companies to compare their own costs relative to competition. It will be difficult for the plaintiffs to prove their case, but these types of cases could scare off efforts to improve efficiencies in the meat and poultry industry.

Composed from information by John Dillard, contributor to AgWeb.com 13

VISION Build CONSUMER TRUST Drive SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION Grow CONSUMER DEMAND

By following the We Care principles – animal care, environment, food safety, public health and community – you and your employees can show the world how much we care. Learn more about how We Care at www.pork.org.

SM

©2015. Funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

14

www.texaspork.org

Pork Milanese with Cacio e Pepe Spaghetti

Pork Sliders with Bacon-Onion Jam

TEXAS PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

©2016 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

Celebrate every day, deliciously!

Find your next favorite recipe at PorkBeInspired.com 15

Cut Your Own to Save a Lot! Whole boneless pork loin is a valuable addition to your family’s freezer because you can get such a variety of cuts and meals from one piece of meat. It’s a great option if you’ve got a lot of mouths to feed for an event or holiday meal you’re hosting, or if you are looking for ways to make your budget stretch a little further. The whole boneless pork loin is incredibly useful; from one pork loin you can get a variety of cuts depending on how you choose to cut it:

Buy, cut & SAVE! The pork loin offers several options for delicious pork recipes. From ribs to chops to roasts, pick your favorite!

Loin Country-Style Ribs

Strips

Cubes

New York Chops

Sirloin Roast

How to Butcher a Whole Boneless Pork Loin

1. Lay the whole loin out on a large cutting board. There will be one end where the meat looks darker in color; use this end for a roast and the opposite end and middle sections for other cuts.

16

2. Cut the loin into three equal portions. You can set aside one portion for a roast and cut the remaining two portions into chops, strips,cubes or country style ribs.

3. Divide into meal size portions for your family, Here’s an example of the meals you could have. It’s best to vaccum pack each portion so the meat will last longer and to prevent freezer burn.

Roast Loin roasts are delicious when brined or rubbed with a spice mixture and barbecued over indirect heat or prepared in a crockpot.

Pork loin roasts should not be braised or stewed as they have a tendency to lose tenderness and fall apart when cooked using moist heat. The loin roast is commonly butterflied, stuffed and bacon wrapped.

Garlic Herbed Pork Loin & Mushroom Wine Sauce

Pork Loin with Prosciutto, Fontina, & Sage

Chops

Bacon-Pork Chop with BBQ Glaze

Pork chops are likely the least intimidating of all pork cuts because they are so easy to prepare.Depending on where they originate, pork chops can be found under a variety of names including loin, rib, sirloin, top loin and blade chops. It’s important to note that all pork chops cook the same. The length of cooking primarily depends on the thickness of the chop. Thickness can vary from ½ to 2 inches. For grilling, the thicker the better!

Grilled Pork Chop with Basil Garlic Rub

Country Style Ribs

Carolina Country Style Ribs

Country-style ribs are cut from the sirloin or rib end of the pork loin. The meatiest variety of ribs country-style ribs are sold either as “slabs” or in individual servings. These pork ribs are perfect for those who want to use a knife and fork. Ribs rubbed with a mixture of herbs and spices are called dry ribs. Such rubs can be applied just before barbecuing. Ribs basted with sauces during the barbecuing process are called wet ribs.

Chili Orange Country Style Ribs

Cubes & Strips Cubes are often sauteed or grilled for kabobs but when braised are great in soups and stews as well. Strips can be cut from virually any section of pork. Strips are typically used for stir-fry, salad or a hearty sandwhich.

Make It Mine Kabobs

For more great recipes and cooking tips visit porkbeinspired.com

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Jim McManigal / Chuck Real Outstanding Swine Volunteer Award

The Jim McManigal / Chuck Real Outstanding Swine Volunteer Award is to recognize outstanding adult volunteers who have shown excellent involvement and contributions to the FFA and 4-H swine programs on the local level. Producers are encouraged to nominate individuals for this award. All applications are reviewed and selection is determined by the TPPA Awards Committee.

Nomination Process: â&#x20AC;˘ Nominations will be accepted from current members of the TPPA. â&#x20AC;˘ Nominations consist of a letter of recommendation describing the level of involvement and contribution to the FFA and 4-H swine programs, in addition to the form found online.

Additional letters of support or verification will be accepted and considered.

Texas Heritage Pig Production Award

Has your family been in pig production for 50 years or more?

Apply now for the Texas Heritage Pig Production Award!

OWNERSHIP / PRODUCTION REQUIREMENTS 1. Pigs must have been continuously owned and produced by family members for two or more generations for at least 50 years.

2. The line of ownership from the first family member producing pigs to the current owner(s) may be through wives, husbands, children, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins. Adopted children will be recognized equally with biological children. The line of ownership and approximate dates of ownership need to be included in the application.

3. Any pig production that has been sold or is in the process of being sold or leased to a non-relative is ineligible.

4. Owner or co-owner must actively manage and direct the everyday pig operation of the farm. Absentee ownership of production does not qualify.

Applications are available at

TEXASPORK.ORG Deadline:

APRIL 15, 2017

Texas Heritage Pig Production and the Jim McManigal / Chuck Real Outstanding Swine Volunteer Awards will be presented at the Awards Banquet held in conjunction with the Texas Pork Industry Conference on June 17th in Lubbock, Texas.

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TEXAS PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

What WE do...

At TPPA we strive to:

Provide a structure for cooperation of pork producers in Texas Encourage efficient production and marketing methods Promote the consumption of quality pork products Provide educational and networking opportunities Represent producers in legislative and regulatory matters

Membership Driven

Participate in Texas Pork Industry Conference and other TPPA sponsored events Networking opportunities to learn the most efficient practices and new concepts Our goal is to improve & increase the quality & production of the Texas swine industry

Youth Support

Scholarship opportunities Develop & enhance leadership skills through activities: Texas Pork Leadership Camp TPPA Internships Texas Pork Youth Symposium Connect with influential industry leaders

get informed

Stay current by receiving timely updates on: Stock Shows Important Issues Market Reports Activities & Events Certified Texas Bred Registry Information Subscription to Producer Connection Receive Spring Buyers Guide and Fall Sales Trail

Est. 1889

Representing the voice of Texas Swine Breeders & Agriculturalists Join Texas Pork Producers Association TODAY Annual Membership Sept. 1st - Aug. 31st

Name: Name of Business: Address: Phone: Youth $25

Email: Producer $50

Professional $50

TPPA Office ◆ 151-A Kirkham Circle, Kyle, TX 78640 ◆ 512-262-0595 ◆ www.texaspork.org

Associate $125 21

Good Luck

TO ALL SWINE EXHIBITORS THIS SEASON AT THE MAJORS!

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Make sure to Contact Us or the CTBR Staff Wayne 806-202-2175 Leslie 806-202-2176

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Summer Internship @ Texas Pork - Become active in TPPA’s daily functions - Help plan and facilitate Texas Pork Leadership Camp and Texas Pork Industry Conference - Assist with production of Producer Connection - Promotional events & social media campaigns - Working with producers and youth throughout the state

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DON’T WAIT... BE READY! NEW ANTIBIOTICS RULES

The NEW Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) for medically important feed-grade antibiotics and prescription rule for water-based antibiotics

TAKE JANUARY 1, 2017.

TOOK EFFECT EFFECT ON JANUARY 1, 2017

YOUR CHECKLIST FOR SUCCESS Understand the new feed (VFD) and water (Rx) rules Strengthen your vet-client-patient relationship (VCPR) Communicate with your feed mill Assess your herd health and welfare strategies

ANTIBIOTICS

RESOURCE CENTER

Renew your commitment to responsible antibiotic use Ensure your record-keeping compliance

Visit

pork.org/antibiotics for more information.

©2016 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

28

Pork Checkoff Service Center 1.800.456.7675

Report Pork Checkoff

January 2017 • VOL. 13 • NO. 1

Newsletter

What You Need to Know FDA’s new antibiotic use rules for pigs began Jan. 1

A

s 2017 begins, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) new rules regarding on-farm use of medically important (to human health) antibiotics are now fully in effect. Even though you likely know many of the basics of the new regulations by now, it’s certainly understandable to have some remaining questions about what the FDA changes all mean and how they may affect your farm.

First, the new FDA rule ends the use of any antibiotics used for growth-promotion purposes associated with all food-animal species, including swine. This is known as Guidance 209. It also increases veterinary oversight of all remaining antibiotic uses on the farm.

“Antibiotics that are now prohibited as growth promoters are still available to treat specific health challenges,” said Lisa Becton, DVM, swine health information and research director for the Pork Checkoff. “But access now will require a licensed veterinarian, who’s familiar with the animals, to authorize a veterinary feed directive (VFD) for feed-based antibiotics or a prescription for products applied through the water.”

While certain aspects of the new regulations may affect larger farms more, the rules apply whether you have one pig for the county fair or raise many thousands each year, Becton said. The bottom line goal of FDA’s new rules is to ensure that antibiotics remain effective for people and animals alike.

“The U.S. pork industry’s support of FDA’s antibiotic strat-

What you need to know about FDA’s new antibiotic use rules

egy and oversight aligns with our goal to ensure safe food, healthy people and healthy pigs,” said National Pork Board President Jan Archer, a pork producer from Goldsboro, North Carolina.

“We have a proud history of raising pigs in ways that go beyond animal health and that are mutually beneficial to human and environmental health,” Archer said. “Day in and day out, pork producers are committed to identifying ways to ensure responsible use of antibiotics, such as embracing the updated Pork Quality Assurance® Plus certification program.”

At the same time, antibiotics remain essential tools for veterinarians and farmers to raise healthy livestock and produce safe food. Responsible use and following FDA’s new rules are steps toward retaining those tools.

This newsletter offers answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding FDA’s new antibiotics rules. The information is compiled from the FDA, USDA’s Center of Veterinary Medicine, the American Association of Swine Veterinarians and others. For more information, visit the Pork Checkoff’s Antibiotics Resource Center online at pork.org/antibiotics.

ANTIBIOTICS

Visit pork.org/antibiotics for more information.

RESOURCE CENTER

Q&A

©2017 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Checkoff Program.

SEE INSIDE 29

Q&A

Expanding the Herd-Health Partnership with Your Vet Q: What are the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) new antibiotic rules that began Jan. 1, 2017?

A: FDA’s Guidance 209 changed the rules for antibiotic

use in all animals raised for food. Specifically, medically important (to human health) antimicrobials can only be used for therapeutic use – to treat, control or prevent specific disease under veterinary guidance. Access to feed-grade antibiotics now requires a veterinary feed directive (VFD) and a prescription for water-based treatments. All over-the-counter sales of antibiotics have voluntarily ended.

Q: Does this rule apply to everyone?

A: FDA’s new antibiotic rules apply to anyone and ev-

eryone who raise animals for food regardless of the type, size or location of the production site. Even if you only have one food animal, it applies to you.

Q: What is a Veterinary Feed Directive?

A: A VFD is a written statement issued by a licensed

veterinarian to allow the use of a VFD drug alone or in combination through animal feed. It authorizes the client (the owner or animal caretaker), as well as the feed distributor, to prepare and use feed with the specified drug to treat the client’s animals for a specified time.

Q: What is a VFD drug?

A: A VFD drug is a medically important (to human health)

antimicrobial that is administered to animals through feed. VFD drugs can only be used under the professional supervision of a licensed veterinarian. A list of VFD drugs for swine can be found at pork.org/antibiotics.

30

Q: What about regulations on water-based medications?

A: It’s important to note that all medically important

antimicrobials that are administered through water now require a veterinary diagnosis and prescription to gain access for treatment. Overall, everything that applies to a VFD also applies to a prescription.

Q: How do producers get access to a VFD or a prescription?

A: A VFD or prescription must be issued by a veterinar-

ian licensed to practice veterinary medicine and comply with the veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) requirements as defined by state or federal guidelines. The FDA will verify whether a state has valid VCPR requirements; if not, the federal rules apply. You can find a VCPR status list at pork.org/antibiotics. The list may change over time as states update their veterinary practice requirements.

Q: How is a VCPR defined?

A: Having a VCPR means that a producer must have an

interactive relationship with a licensed veterinarian.

For a valid VCPR, the veterinarian must understand the production practices and health profile of a herd or group of pigs to make clinical judgements about treatment. This will include on-site visits and animal (i.e. pig) examinations.

The veterinarian also should provide follow-up evaluation or care as necessary. It’s worth noting that a valid VCPR requires a veterinarian to visit the animals in person. Photos or videos of the animals alone will not suffice to obtain a valid diagnosis.

Q&A Q: What is the scope of a VFD? A: A VFD will involve only one veterinarian, not an entire

clinic. The client is the person responsible for the care and feeding of the animals, which may or may not be the actual producer/owner. It will involve one feed manufacturer/distributor. It will designate one medication or combination medication. It can involve one or more animal production sites. (See below.)

Q: Will the VFD specify the exact drug to be used?

A: The veterinarian is required to write the name of

the drug on the VFD, but may choose to write in a trade name/pioneer drug or allow a generic drug to be used. The feed manufacturer may not substitute a pioneer drug with a generic drug unless the veterinarian allows it and designates it as such on the written VFD.

Q: What other information will the VFD include?

A: Each VFD will outline the following: the animals or

group; the health issue requiring treatment (in detail); the drug, dosage and duration of use. It also will include an expiration date, which specifies the last day the VFD feed can be fed. The authorizing veterinarian’s signature in written or electronic form is required.

Q: Are there provisions to designate and treat groups of animals with antibiotics?

A: FDA recognizes there are groups of animals, similar in age, weight, etc., that are managed in a similar manner, with a common health status, but may be housed in different physical locations. For example, a group of weaned pigs may be moved to multiple finishing sites. The veterinarian may write a single VFD to treat the weaned pigs as a group (approximate number) at multiple physical locations provided there is a valid VCPR and a single feed manufacturer/distributor involved. If multiple feed suppliers are involved, it will require multiple VFDs.

Q: What information is required to identify and locate an animal site?

A: A VFD will need to include information about the

physical location of the animals that would allow someone to locate them. A street address for the facility would suffice. If not available, the premises identification number or global positioning system (GPS) coordinate may be used. From there, the veterinarian can decide whether to add more detail, such as the barn, pen, etc., provided the animals will remain in place until the VFD expiration date.

Q: How is the VFD expiration date determined?

A: The expiration date for the VFD must not exceed the

expiration date specified in the drug’s approval, conditional approval or index listing. The veterinarian will use his or her medical judgment to determine what expiration date is appropriate for the VFD based on factors including, but not limited to, the type of animal production facility and operation, the VFD drug or combination drug at issue, the intended use of the VFD drug, and the animals’ health status, treatment history and life cycle.

A veterinarian can write a VFD for a maximum of six months. If there is a need to extend the treatment beyond that time limit, a new VFD will be required.

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Q: How can a VFD be transmitted to the feed distributor?

A: A veterinarian must send the VFD to the feed dis-

tributor as a hardcopy by fax or electronically (i.e. via the Internet.) If the veterinarian sends a hardcopy, he or she must send the VFD directly to the distributor or through the client. A VFD order must be written and may not be issued verbally, including via a telephone call.

Q: What are the record-keeping requirements for a VFD? A: The issuing veterinarian is required to keep the

original VFD, and the client and the feed manufacturer/distributor must keep a copy of the VFD for two years. Prescriptions (i.e. for water medications) must be held for one year. Hardcopy or electronic versions of the VFD or prescription are allowed. Electronic records must meet FDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specified requirements (see Guidance for Industry #233, VFD Common Format Questions and Answers at pork.org/antibiotics on the FDA-info tab.)

Electronic services provided by vendors such as GlobalVetLINK provide compliant, easy-to-manage options. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re considering using a service, just be sure to check that it is FDA-compliant. Any of the parties must be able to provide the records to FDA upon request. For example, in the case of contract growers, they do not have to have a copy of the VFD onsite but must be able to retrieve it within 24 hours.

Q: If a VFD drug is approved for use at multiple levels or within a range, will one or more VFD orders be issued?

A: In cases where a VFD drug is approved for use at mul-

tiple drug levels, the veterinarian may issue a single VFD order covering all approved concentrations intended to be used, as well as the approved feeding duration(s). If a VFD drug is approved for use within a range of concentrations, the veterinarian may specify a level within the range or authorize any use within the range by including the entire authorized range on the VFD.

Q: If a single group of pigs in a nursery needs two pulses of chlortetracycline (CTC) for two weeks each separated by several weeks, will one VFD suffice?

A: A veterinarian cannot issue a VFD that authorizes a

duration of use that is inconsistent with the directions for use described on the product labeling. In this example, the drug approval limits the treatment to 14 days, so the VFD can only authorize that approved duration. Issuing a VFD that authorizes a 14-day course to be repeated for the same animals would be considered an illegal, extralabel use. However, if the herd veterinarian reassesses the animals involved after a single course of therapy (i.e., drug administered according to the labeled dose and duration), he/she may decide that additional therapy is warranted and could issue a new VFD.

Q: Is extralabel use of a VFD drug allowed?

Q: How do the new antibiotic rules affect pork producers who make their own feed?

A: Extralabel use (ELDU) of medicated feed contain-

A: If the producer is not a feed distributor, he/she must

ing a VFD drug or a combination VFD drug is not allowed. For example, feeding animals VFD feed for a duration that varies from the period specified on the label, feeding VFD feed formulated at a different drug level or feeding VFD feed to a species not designated on the label would all be considered ELDU. (See page 7 for more information.)

32

have a VFD to receive Type B or C VFD medicated feed from a distributor. If the producer is obtaining a Type A medicated article that is not a VFD feed, the producer does not need to provide a VFD. However, the producer will need a VFD prior to feeding any Type B or C medicated feed that they mix from the Type A medicated article.

Q&A FDA recognizes that producers who manufacture their own medicated feed may need to hold some Type A medicated articles or feed in inventory to allow them to quickly manufacture medicated feed for treatment after receiving the veterinarian’s VFD authorization. However, the inventory should align with the expected amount of VFD feed needed to treat the designated animals.

Q: How are feed-delivery records tied to a VFD? Since feed mills generally have these records, do producers and veterinarians need to have them as well?

A: During an FDA inspection, the agency will review

VFD orders and compare them to the feed manufacturing records. FDA would expect that the amount of medicated feed produced to fill a VFD, whether in one or several batches, would be commensurate with the amount of feed necessary for the approximate number of animals that the VFD authorizes to be fed. The producer and veterinarian are required to maintain the main VFD record, but they are not required to maintain feed-delivery records under the final VFD rule.

Q: What happens if a treated group of pigs rebreaks with a disease or requires another treatment?

A: In such a case, the veterinarian will need to authorize another VFD or a water-medication prescription as appropriate.

Q: How do FDA’s new rules impact show pig exhibitors?

A: Everyone who owns or raises pigs is affected by

FDA’s new antibiotic rules regardless of the number of animals. The exhibitor will need to establish a VCPR with a veterinarian who will need to visit each set of pigs to check on their health, housing and care.

For example: If you’re feeding pigs for a series of summer shows, that’s one set of pigs requiring a veterinary visit. Pigs that are being prepared for a fall show is a separate set, and so on. This is true even if they’re on the same site or in the same barn. The veterinarian will need to see each set of pigs in order to write a VFD or a prescription for water medication if needed.

Q: What if a mill breaks down or runs out of a VFD drug?

Q: Can an FFA advisor/4-H leader serve as the caretaker of all the club’s animals?

A: The feed distributor that receives the VFD from the

A: Yes, provided the animals are housed within a

veterinarian or client should be the only one filling the entire order. In special circumstances, two mills may be required to fill the order. For example: • If a mill runs out of a VFD drug and the client needs VFD feed to adhere to the treatment regimen • If a feed mill goes down unexpectedly.

In such cases, the client and distributors should keep records documenting the situation to clarify that the animals received only VFD-authorized treatment.

Q: How should leftover VFD feed be handled?

A: Any VFD feed remaining after its related VFD has ex-

pired may not be fed to animals without obtaining a new VFD. Feed will need to be disposed of according to the state or local requirements for medicated feed.

common location where the FFA advisor or 4-H leader is responsible for the care and feeding of the animals. This would allow the advisor/leader to establish the VCPR and manage any VFDs or prescriptions. Otherwise, each individual exhibitor or site needs to establish its own VCPR.

Q: If a youth exhibitor shows a pig at a jackpot show (a one- or two-day show where pigs will return home), does he/ she need a copy of a VFD or a prescription at the show? Or, can an exhibitor produce it at a later date if asked by the FDA? A: The VFD final rule requires that “all involved parties must make the VFD and any other records specified in this section available for inspection and copying by FDA upon request.” {21 CFR 558.6(a)(5)}. Therefore, an exhibitor’s copy of a VFD or prescription should be readily available.

33

Q&A Q: How will the new antibiotic rules be enforced?

A: FDA has initiated a pilot project to inspect the

VFD process. This involves going to a feed distributor and reviewing three randomly selected VFD forms. Officials will select one to trace back to the veterinarian, investigating the VCPR and ensuring the producer/client applied the VFD feed correctly. The process also will check that all records are complete, accurate and stored properly.

Long term, FDA will engage in risk-based general surveillance, as well as for-cause inspection assignments. The agency will work closely with state regulatory partners and state boards of veterinary medicine.

Q: What are the penalties for non-compliance of the new antibiotic rules?

A: There are several actions FDA can pursue to address a violation, including injunction, seizure, monetary penalties and criminal charges under Section 303(a) of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

Q: Where can producers find more answers about the new antibiotic rules?

A: Numerous resources are available at the Pork

Checkoff’s Antibiotics Resource Center found at pork.org/antibiotics. Bookmark the website on your computer or smartphone. You also can email questions to FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine at askCVM@fda.gov.

For more information and more FAQs, go to: pork.org/antibiotics

ANTIBIOTICS

34

RESOURCE CENTER

Know Your Role in Extralabel D

Y

ou may have heard about extralabel drug use (ELDU) of certain drugs over the years, but it’s never been more important to be knowledgeable about the critical role both veterinarians and producers play in keeping people and pigs healthy as it relates to proper and legal antibiotic use. Of course, only a licensed veterinarian can authorize the use of a drug in an ELDU manner and only if it is allowed by law.

Under the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act of 1994, an ELDU is an FDA-regulated veterinary medical activity that allows veterinarians to prescribe extralabel uses of approved animal and human drugs when the health of an animal is threatened, or when suffering or death may result from failure to treat animals. In short, producers and veterinarians can use these drugs for conditions not listed on the label, but they are only available through a prescription from a veterinarian.

As before FDA’s new antibiotic rules went into effect on Jan. 1, extralabel use of medicated feeds, including medicated feed containing a veterinary feed directive (VFD) drug or a combination VFD drug, remains illegal.

Examples considered extralabel uses and therefore not permitted include: • Feeding pigs a VFD feed for a duration of time different from what is specified on the label.

• Feeding VFD feed formulated with a drug level different from what is specified on the label.

• Feeding VFD feed to an animal species different than what is specified on the label.

Unlike medicated feeds, the use of injectable drugs in an ELDU manner remains allowable under a valid Veterinary Client Patient Relationship (VCPR), but with certain limits. For example, under a VCPR, a producer with veterinary oversight or a veterinarian could use injectable drugs to treat a joint infection in a sow, despite it not being a listed use on the label.

l Drug Use Specific Criteria Must Be Followed for ELDU, Including: ■ ■

■

■

■

■

■

A valid VCPR is a prerequisite for all ELDU. Only a veterinarian can determine that ELDU is needed and can administer, prescribe or dispense a medication in an extralabel way.

A veterinarian must direct or supervise ELDU in an animal.

ELDU rules only apply to FDA-approved animal and human drugs.

ELDU is intended for prevention, treatment and control purposes only when an animal’s health is threatened. ELDU of drugs for production use and/or in feed is not approved.

ELDU is not permitted if it results in an illegal food residue or any residue that may present a risk to public health.

A veterinarian must not pursue use of certain FDAprohibited drugs in food-producing animals (see sidebar at right).

Extralabel Drug Use of an FDA-Approved Drug May Allowed If: • There is no approved animal drug that is labeled for such use (a specified diagnosis) or that contains the same active ingredient in the required dosage form and concentration.

• Alternatively, an approved animal drug for that species and condition exists, but a veterinarian finds, within the context of a VCPR, that the approved drug is clinically ineffective for its labeled use.

Per federal regulations, ELDU of the following drugs is prohibited in food-producing animals, regardless of whether or not the criteria for ELDU are met: 1. Chloramphenicol 2. Clenbuterol 3. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) 4. Dimetridazole 5. Ipronidazole 6. Other nitroimidazoles 7. Furazolidone 8. Nitrofurazone 9. Sulfonamide drugs in lactating dairy cattle (except approved use of sulfadimethoxine, sulfabromomethazine, and sulfaethoxypyridazine) 10. Fluoroquinolones 11. Glycopeptides 12. Phenylbutazone in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older 13. Cephalosporin (excluding cephapirin) use in cattle, swine, chickens and turkeys • Using cephalosporin drugs at unapproved dose levels, frequencies, durations or routes of administration is prohibited • Using cephalosporin drugs in cattle, swine, chickens or turkeys that are not approved for use in that species (e.g., cephalosporin drugs intended for humans or companion animals) • Using cephalosporin drugs for disease prevention

A Special Note on Cephalosporins Cephalosporins are a family of drugs that are used in both people and animals. The cephalosporins most pork producers are familiar with are the injectable ceftiofur-based products, such as Naxcel®, Excede® and Excenel®.

Because this class of drugs is used in human medicine, the FDA has sought to reduce the uses of cephalosporin antibiotics in animals. FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine issued an order in 2012 that prohibited the extralabel use of cephalosporin drugs (not including cephapirin) in cattle, swine, chickens and turkeys. Since then, these drugs can only be used strictly according to their labels, even by veterinarians. In addition, the current rules prohibit use of cephalosporin drugs to prevent disease in all food animals.

As always, pork producers should create a whole-herd health plan with their veterinarians. This should include how, if needed, they will use antibiotics in any part of their farm to ensure that they are abiding by all federal regulations.

35

2017 Spring Buyers Guide

to be Featured in the April/May Producer Connection This magazine will be distributed to all Ag Chapters and Extension offices in the state of Texas and available to be viewed online.

Advertise your pigs for the late summer and early fall shows. The 2017 Spring Buyers Guide will be included within the April/May issue of the Producer Connection, and we will showcase your sale similar to our Fall Sales Trail. We will not include any pigs available after July 31, 2017.

21

Amarillo

If you want to be listed on the map & in the featured sales listing...

Option 1 Place an advertisement in the April / May issue Fourth Page or larger and be listed for FREE.

24 11 Lubbock

13

Fort Worth

2 Midland

1

Dallas

22

16

18

15 20

12

3 Waco

14 7

9 17

(Must still complete the form below)

19 8

Option 2 Complete & submit the form below and submit $50 to TPPA by March 15th.

10 25

5

Austin Houston

San Antonio

6

4

Corpus Christi

23

Please make checks payable to TPPA. If payment is not received by March 15th you will not be included in this publication.

I would like to purchase: (circle one)

Option 1

Option 2 ~ $50

Name: Farm Name: Offering:

How Should Buyers Contact You: Additional Information you want to share:

36

Send form and payment to Texas Pork Producers Association * 151-A Kirkham Circle * Kyle, TX 78640

TARGET

SEMEN SALES PROMOTE YOUR BOARS IN THE NEXT ISSUE MAGAZINE TO BE DISTRIBUTED APRIL 1

37

TARGET A DEDICATED AND CAPTIVE AUDIENCE At a time when social media and on-line presence is trendy, research continues to demonstrate that consumers still value and rely heavily on magazine content.

The Producer Connection is the popular TPPA publication that provides relevant news and information that our highly targeted audience wants. Whether it’s dealing with show pigs and seed stock, commercial pork production or anything in between, we deliver consistent results. Our magazine has shown to have a lasting impact with readers, so engage your customers by advertising with TPPA and let us help with your promotional needs.

UPCOMING ISSUES ISSUE

MAIL DATE

AD DEADLINE

DISTRIBUTION

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February 1, 2017

January 15, 2017

All Texas Major Stock Shows - Fort Worth, San Antonio, San Angelo, Houston, Austin, TPPA Membership and magazine subscription list.

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April 1, 2017

March 20, 2017

All Texas FFA Chapters, All County Extension Offices, TPPA Membership and magazine subscription list.

August / September

August 10, 2017

July 25, 2017

Fall Consignment Pig Sales, All Texas FFA Chapters, All County Extension Offices, TPPA Membership and magazine subscription list.

October / November

October 1, 2017

State Fair of Texas Livestock Show, Consignment Pig September 15, 2017 Sales, NSR Fall Classic, TPPA Membership and magazine subscription list.

Stock Show Edition

Spring Buyers Guide & Boar Edition

Show Pig Sales & TPPA Event Wrap-up

Show Pig Sales & National Pork Month

DISCOUNTS FOR PLACING AN ADVERTISEMENT IN ALL 4 ISSUES 15% off Rates

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38

WHY YOU SHOULD ADVERTISE IN THE PRODUCER CONNECTION MOST AFFORDABLE RATES FOR A MAJOR LIVESTOCK MAGAZINE OUR FOCUS IS ON YOUR MARKET QUICKLY BECOMING THE MOST POPULAR SWINE PUBLICATION WE WORK HARD TO IMPROVE YOUR RETURN ON INVESTMENT CONTACT OUR TEAM TO DISCUSS OPTIONS AND HOW WE CAN PROVIDE TREMENDOUS VALUE TO YOUR MARKETING SCHEME. CASSIDY SMITH BRANDON GUNN COMMUNICATIONS@TEXASPORK.ORG 39

r e v e N

By:

40

Kay

la M

.W

ilki

ns

r

F

or many, a passion for something is sparked during the first experience with it or soon thereafter. However, at the ripe age of five, a confrontation with a show pig at the Ft. Worth Stockshow did not provide the typical result. Unexpectedly coming face-to-face with a heavyweight Duroc in the alley resulted in quite the shock for her and the pig — chaos soon erupted. She noted that Duroc as the biggest hog in the world and needless to say, Carson Read was less than impressed. She vowed on that day to never show pigs.

As the saying goes, “never say never,” because Read found herself just a few short years later driving a reserve grand champion barrow her uncle bought her for her first jackpot show. With that success under her belt, Carson’s attitude quickly took a 180-degree turn. Before that day she had never shown a hog before and actually hadn’t even taken the hog home yet. It was with guidance from her uncle that she was able to spark a passion for the swine industry and showing hogs. She now describes the worst part of showing pigs as when it’s over.

Road to the ring The Read family has traveled across the country exhibiting hogs, but even so, Carson noted her

favorite show being a little closer to home.

Like many, countless memories and lifelong relationships have been made in the barns of her county show.

“All the livestock shows hold a special memory for me. I’ve had life lessons at each of the majors, they have all brought tears, heartbreak as well as incredible joy,” she explained. “With that being said, my county show is dearest to my heart.

Although it’s not anything compared to Houston or San Antonio in size, the memories that I have in that barn will never be forgotten. Sharing time with those that I started this journey with and I have traveled along with from the beginning means a lot to me.”

Production agriculture carries a massive

responsibility, primarily feeding the world’s

population, while being

under constant scrutiny.

“I will admit that last walk out of the show ring at a major is hard,” Read said. “I always cry.

That’s a tough walk.”

Read is a 17-year-old junior at Decatur High School from Decatur, Texas. Her parents, Shay and Carrie Read, support her and her younger sister, Lynnleigh, while they strive to meet their goals both in and out of the show ring.

She first began exhibiting livestock with goats when she was 7-years-old and added hogs to the mix two years later. Collectively, she has been in the ring 10 years and showing exclusively pigs and steers the last eight.

However, her community support only pushes her to compete on a larger scale across the state and nation. In order to maintain a competitive edge, Read said there is much work on the front-end from her entire family.

They spend hours doing research and preparing a game plan for the year — rarely straying from it. She attributes much of her success in the livestock arena to the consistency and work ethic at home. It is clear the “game plan” has paid off as she has a lengthy list of successes over the years.

“Winning Champion Intermediate Showman at the National Western would definitely be on the top of the list,” she noted. “I work hard at presentation and to be recognized for it meant a lot to me.”

41

Being this familiar with the show scene, it is easy for her to recall several memories. A pig surprising everyone with a win and special moments shared with family hauling to a show are just a couple. However, among her favorite is showing one special gilt during summer jackpot shows.

Gypsy gave Read a run for her money. She admitted Gypsy was a force to be reckoned with, but was also instrumental in teaching her what showing pigs is all about.

“I learned a lot about how to show a hog that summer,” she said. “Folks would stop and watch us, even if we weren’t in the ring. We were quite the pair.”

Although the buckles and banners from that summer, and her show career as a whole, look nice displayed on a shelf, Read understands the behind-the-scenes effort taking place to get there. For her, the clock doesn’t matter because sometimes the job at hand may take longer than expected. Regardless of other activities available to her, quitting early in the barn is not an option.

Even as a teenager, Read sees beyond the sheer excitement of the ring. She recognizes the challenges associated with the agriculture industry and realizes her part is much bigger than what meets the eye.

“Production agriculture carries a massive responsibility, primarily feeding the world’s population, while being under constant scrutiny,” she said. “We have to be ready to educate people on what we are doing and why we are doing it.

Being patient and being prepared can often be tricky to balance, but being involved in production agriculture it a great teacher of both.”

42

Many irons in the fire The balancing act does not end with Read’s advocacy efforts. The time commitment of showing pigs can sometimes deter youth from participating outside the ring, but Read does not let it slow her down.

She has been heavily involved with community service and leadership in 4-H since day one, currently serving as their county council president, a state livestock ambassador and a member of their county senior livestock judging team. Her leadership roles only continue with FFA. She is the District 1 Vice President, and a member of the senior chapter conducting and livestock judging teams.

“4-H and FFA are different but great compliments to each other,” she noted. “I like policy and procedure and some amount of structure, which both programs are based on.

They also are very servant leader based which I really, really like.”

Beyond agricultural organizations, Read’s name can be found as a byline in her school newspaper. She not only serves as a contributing writer, but also the editor.

Among all her extracurricular activities, being a state livestock ambassador ranks highly.

“By being a State Livestock Ambassador I have truly learned the value of service to others,” she explained. “In addition to helping my little sister, I hope to be able to share the knowledge I gained through my experiences to help others in their show career. There is

Carson’s Favorites I always make sure I…give thanks to everyone

who has helped me.

I have always looked up to…My Uncle Scott.

He got me started in all of this. He’s the one that told me I have three steps to make an impression on a judge, they better be good steps.

My favorite song is…whatever is on the radio!

If I could do anything, I would be an…

International Ambassador.

Favorite advice...Never quit. Never give up.

I can not live without… my family, my

friends and really good lip gloss. And a cute purse.

And Jesus.

Favorite quote...“For I know the plans I have for

you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” Jeremiah 29:11

43

more to be learned in the preparation of showing than in actually doing it. That’s what I like the most about it.”

“I want to have an impact on someone like so many others have had on me,” she said. “I want to pass on that pride and passion.”

As a youth leader and advocate in the production side of agriculture, Carson also took advantage of the opportunity to attend the TPPA Pork Leadership Camp last summer. She described her time at camp as quite the experience. Her advice to future campers is to be prepared to learn a lot and sleep less, but most importantly to take advantage of the opportunity surrounding camp to grow as a leader in the pork industry.

Ranked high in her class and already taking advantage of dual credit classes, it is obvious Read has college in mind. Next year, it won’t be a surprise to see Carson’s leadership continue as she steps foot on campus at Texas A&M University or Oklahoma State University, pursuing a degree in animal science with an emphasis in swine production.

“Being exposed to commercial pork production really opened my eyes. The steps and measures farmers take to keep animals healthy and to protect our food source is incredible,” she said. “I don’t think that gets near the attention it deserves.”

From here forward Her experiences thus far have made her goals crystal clear. She hopes to win a major before graduating and influence youth around her while doing so.

44

However, even when she is a full-blown college kid, Read plans to keep her roots at home. The production side of the swine industry fascinates her, and the people she has the opportunity to be around because of it have added to her enthusiasm.

Fortunately for her, she won’t be missing out on all the fun when she begins her college journey.

“I will help our family operation for as long as we have it,” she emphasized. “I really want to be in a position to help another young person and their family. I can’t begin to tell you how many people from all across the state, and then some, who have helped us. I want to be able to keep that going and pass along what has been given to me.”

Read has high expectations for her future, but attributes much of her inspiration to her parents.

She said none of her achievements would be possible without their continued guidance and motivation pushing her forward.

“If you are going to take on the project of a market animal, you know how it ends for that animal,” she explained. “While it is in your care, make sure it is the best six months of their life, or however long you have it. They deserve that.”

“My mom shows, on a daily basis, what a true follower of Christ looks like,” Read said. “I hope that one day I am half the parent to my children that she is to my sister and me.”

With the constant support of her parents and other mentors, and her strong desire to make a difference, industry leaders can expect to see a lot more out of this young lady.

She is eager to work in the agriculture industry and explore the diverse career opportunities available.

Her mother’s guidance paired with her father’s passion for the industry and strong work ethic spurred Read to be the young lady she is today.

“He has shown me the value of true work, responsibility and respect for the industry that our family is so dedicated to,” she explained.

Beyond that, her dad is responsible for her perspective on the show industry. She recalls a conversation she had with her dad early on about what it means to raise a market animal.

Read understands animals that provide food for us deserve the utmost respect.

“Working for an organization that revolves around the idea of education and the betterment of the swine industry is definitely in my future,” she said.

“Regardless of which career path I take, I know that it will work closely with the agricultural industry, more specifically, the swine production industry in some fashion, maybe even marketing or public relations.”

45

Want a career in the pork industry?

PorkSquare® is an interactive, social media-driven website for career information in the pork industry.

It serves as the industry’s one-stop shop for internships, scholarships and college information.

Available for students ages 15 to 25 interested in a future in the pork industry.

www.PorkSquare.com

Careers such as production managers, accountants, veterinarians, and so many more are out there waiting for you in the pork industry!

Search Now!

©2016 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

46

Internships, Scholarships and Companies

CTB R Fo und Prod uctio ation Gilt n Gr ant O Scho larsh ppo ip & r tun ity Scholarship - Over $35,000 has been awarded in scholarships since 2011 - In 2016, three scholarships were awarded at $2,500 each Production Grant - Provide financial assistance to deserving 4-H and FFA students who are continuing their involvement in swine production through establishing their own breeding program.

- Minimum amount of $2,500

APPLICATION DEADLINE

APRIL 15TH

texaspork.org

47

A DECADE OF

Championships

2016 National Champion Livestock Judging Team Livestock Judging National Championships

Meat Judging National Championships

2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2015, 2016

2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015

2017 Texas Tech Invitational Contests and Workshops Registration at www.judgingcard.com Saturday, March 25

2017 Judging Camps

Registration information available March 1 at www.afs.ttu.edu Wool Judging Camp: June 1-3 Livestock Judging Camp 1: June 1-3 Livestock Judging Camp 2: June 11-13 Junior Livestock Judging Camp: June 10 Junior Meat Juging Camp: June 10 Meat Judging Camp 1: June 11-13 Meat Judging Camp 2: June 25-27

48

Collegiate Livestock Judging Results Champion Senior College

Texas A&M University Harrison Smith Logan Browne Clayton Schram Kelsey Jozwiak Emily June Kelley Coach Keaton Dodd

Reserve Champion Senior College Texas Tech University

Jack Redifer Cam Anderson Ben Weis Jim Waldrop Travis Stedje Coach John DeClerck

Reserve Champion Junior College Blinn Junior College

Sierra Martin Landon Eldridge Austin Nauman Lori Edwards Kevin Edwards Coach Brice Mund 49

Applications now available for the

Texas Pork Leadership Camp

July 17 - 21, 2017

The Texas Pork Leadership Camp is an intense, progressive and thought provoking week, full of activities, tours and presentations featuring all aspects of the pork production industry from Farm to Fork! You’ll have the opportunity to visit with world leading commercial hog operations, top Universities & industry professionals and tour large scale harvesting and pork processing plants.

Application deadline is April 15th.

“TPPA Camp was definitely an educational highlight for me. It exposed me to the huge scale of the pork industry as well as the connection between show pig and market hog production. This is a great opportunity, it’s lots of fun, and I’d recommend it to any young person pursuing a career in production agriculture” Kevin Mock, ‘01 ShowRite Feeds National Accounts Manager and Mock Livestock

50

“It was a very well organized camp that showed every aspect of the industry. It was amazing to see and experience every step from breeding the animal to receiving the meat on your plate. I met a lot of great people that loved the industry just as much as I do and grew tremendously as an individual and an exhibitor.”

Reagan Langemeier, ‘14 Student Texas Tech University

Topics Covered:

- Key Industry Issues - Live Animal Evaluation - Taste & Sensory Panels - Promotion & Marketing - Leadership & Team Building - College Prep, Careers & Internships - Harvesting & Processing - Breeding, Reproduction & Genetics on a Commercial Level - Retail Marketing - Media Training

“You get a realization of the real world as opposed to the small surface you receive from the show ring. You will make friends and contacts from similar backgrounds which remain much longer than the week you spend on the tour. Part of my everyday keep/cull selection specifically leaving the farrowing house is based off of knowledge gathered from the managers of the large operations throughout this tour.”

Clint Halfmann, ‘03 West Texas Genetics 51

“Looking back when I went through the camp years ago and now having been a host for it, I know that it is a phenomenal experience and opportunity for our youth. Especially now when the focus of many is in the show ring, this camp provides so much value and education on the realization of pork production and the food industry.”

Daryl Real, ‘94 Livestock Director, State Fair of Texas

Who can attend?

- Ages 16-18, not in college yet - Have an interest in the swine industry - Willing to learn, grow and be an advocate for the swine industry

“The camaraderie and interaction with fellow campers was one of the greatest attributes of the pork tour in my opinion. When you’re a passionate hog kid and you live and breathe it, getting to spend a week with others your age that share that same fire is an incredible opportunity. Looking back, I know that experience was a huge reason I wanted to stay closely connected with the swine industry.”

Cassidy Hayes, ‘05 HF Genetics “I really enjoyed my time at camp. Coming from a show pig background I had no idea what the “real world” swine industry was all about. I was able to learn from industry leaders as well as visit some of the top universities in Texas. The camp helped set my future as it had a major role in helping me pick where I went to college and more specifically select a major. The camp definitely helped lay the foundation I needed to succeed not only while at college but also now into my professional career.“ Josh Powell, ‘00 Wiley Lease Co. Operations Manager and Powell Livestock

52

“I was lucky enough to attend camp twice, first as a camper and then a leader with my TPPA internship.

TPLC was the most eyeopening, challenging, and entertaining camp I ever attended... all at the same time! My favorite part was learning how to inform the public about hog farming practices.”

Ian Schaefer, ‘11 Student Texas Tech University

Application Deadline:

April 15th available at

texaspork.org 53

Final DR

“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

-Winnie the Pooh

As majors are quickly approaching, many seniors across the state are preparing to close the door on a huge part of their lives. Whether you’ve shown since you could walk or just started in high school, this experience has taught you so much. Here is some advice from college students who were in your shoes not too long ago, on how they closed this door but then opened so many others.

HATTIE BEZNER

Freshman, Texas A&M University

What is the biggest lesson you learned from showing hogs?

The biggest lesson learned in my show career was to stand up for what I believed was right. I learned to not coward to someone who assumes you will not speak up. And most importantly, I learned to be proud of the work I have put in and the animal I am exhibiting.

What do you want these seniors to know?

I want them to know that the feeling of giving something your all, no matter the outcome, is the real goal. The fullness provided by putting in hard work beats the fullness any banner or ribbon can bring.

If you could go back, what would you tell your senior self?

If I could go back to senior year, I would encourage myself to be present. As I look back, I see how many wonderful experiences I had with my family. If I could go back, I would stop to smell the roses more often.

54

REAGAN LANGEMEIER

Freshman, Texas Tech University

“If you give 110%- I promise it’ll pay off.”

If you could go back, what would you tell your senior self?

Slow down! I was 110 mph my entire senior year due to multiple species and at every show all across the nation, so I felt like I never fully enjoyed the experience but if you just slow down and soak it all up, I promise your experience will be 100 times better.

What was your favorite memory of senior year?

IVE

Favorite memory of senior year is getting two species in the sale at every major. Plus winning Houston Gilt Show with my berk. She was pretty dang special.

What do you want these seniors to know?

The show ring isn’t the only thing that matters. This was hard for me to grasp but the second I walked out I realized there’s so much more than winning a class, division, or show. We focus so much on the pig inside of the ring, instead we should be focusing on the people outside supporting you.

RAFE ROYALL

Freshman, Texas Tech University

What’s something to keep in mind during this last show season?

By raising and showing livestock and doing all that you have during this process, just know that as this door closes, so many more open. Get ready for a world of opportunities.

Who do they need to remember to thank?

To you seniors, remember to thank those who got you here. Your parents, siblings, ag teacher, county agent and breeders have devoted so much to you, thank them. I couldn’t have accomplished all that I did or even have gotten into this hog deal without the support and push of my dad, Rebel Royall.

What do you want these seniors to know?

As you begin this season don’t take anything for granted, we are blessed with so much and must always remember to be thankful for it.

JACI BURGIN

Freshman, Blinn College

“Work hard. Make the best of everything.

Don’t forget the people who got you there.”

What were you thinking walking into the ring for the last time?

It was bittersweet, you know walking in that this is it, the end. Then you look back at everything that has got you there and you think, “Wow is it really over?” I was excited to see what the future held.

What would you go back and tell your senior self?

Cherish every moment, don’t take anything for granted! Remember that not everything will go as planned, but take whatever happens, make the best of it and learn from it.

What was your favorite memory of senior year?

It was at my county show, when my younger brother won his first banner! Being there and sharing his success with him is something I will always cherish.

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PREPARATION IS KEY BLACK OPB Class 1 - 230-244 Class 2 - 245-265 Class 3 - 266-270

MARKET BARROW SHOW January 30 - February 3, 2017

DUROC Class 1 - 230-251 Class 2 - 262-263 Class 3 - 264-269 Class 4 - 270

TEXAS STARS GILT SHOW February 10 - 14, 2017 NON-PEDIGREED Class 1 - 230-233 Class 7 - 248-250 Class 2 - 230-233 Class 8 - 251-255 Class 3 - 230-233 Class 9 - 256-259 Class 4 - 230-233 Class 10 - 260-264 Class 5 - 234-239 Class 11 - 265-269 Class 6 - 240-247 Class 12 - 270-275

BERKSHIRE Class 1 - 240-251 Class 2 - 252-268 Class 3 - 269-280

MARKET BARROW SHOW February 18 - 23, 2017

MARKET BARROW SHOW March 18 - 23, 2017

SPOT Class 6 - 240-245 Class 7 - 246-258 Class 8 - 259-272 Class 9 - 273-280

DUROC Class 1 - 240 Class 2 - 241-253 Class 3 - 254-260 Class 4 - 261-268 Class 7 - 269-275 Class 8 - 276-280 Class 9 - 276-280

DUROC Class 1 - 240-250 Class 2 - 251-269 Class 3 - 270-280

MARKET BARROW SHOW March 20 - 22, 2017 56

HAMPSHIRE Class 1 - 230-235 Class 2 - 236-250 Class 3 - 251-260 Class 4 - 261-269 Class 5 - 270

WHITE OPB Class 1 - 230-254 Class 2 - 255-269 Class 3 - 270

MARKET BARROW SHOW February 14 - 16, 2017 Class 13 - 276-281 Class 14 - 282-289 Class 15 - 290-296 Class 16 - 297-305 Class 17 - 306-319 Class 18 - 320-392

HAMPSHIRE Class 12 - 240 Class 13 - 240 Class 14 - 240 Class 15 - 241-246 Class 16 - 247-252 Class 17 - 253-255

HAMPSHIRE Class 14 - 240-241 Class 15 - 240-241 Class 16 - 240-241 Class 17 - 242-245 Class 18 - 246-250 Class 21 - 251-254 Class 22 - 255-258

DARK OPB Class 4 - 240 Class 5 - 243-252 Class 6 - 253-266 Class 7 - 270-280

HAMPSHIRE Class 1 - 240-250 Class 2 - 240-250 Class 3 - 251-260 Class 4 - 261-274 Class 5 - 275-280

Class 18 - 256-260 Class 19 - 261-265 Class 20 - 266-271 Class 21 - 272-276 Class 22 - 277-280 Class 23 - 277-280

Class 23 - 259-263 Class 24 - 264-266 Class 27 - 267-272 Class 28 - 273-276 Class 29 - 277-280 Class 30 - 277-280

WHITE OPB Class 8 - 240-269 Class 9 - 270-280

DUROC Class 32 - 240-244 Class 33 - 245-253 Class 34 - 254-261 Class 35 - 262-266 Class 36 - 267-272 Class 37 - 273-279 Class 38 - 280 Class 39 - 280

POLAND CHINA Class 35 - 240-255 Class 36 - 256-280 BERKSHIRE Class 39 - 240-254 Class 40 - 255-269 Class 41 - 270-280

HAMPSHIRE Class 10 - 240 Class 11 - 240 Class 12 - 241-250 Class 13 - 251-259 Class 14 - 260-265 Class 15 - 266-273 Class 16 - 275-280

2016 WEIGHT BREAKS YORKSHIRE Class 1 - 230-253 Class 2 - 254-268 Class 3 - 269-270

OTHER CROSSBRED Class 1 - 230 Class 2 - 231-242 Class 3 - 243-250 Class 4 - 251-254

OTHER CROSSBRED Class 8 - 240 Class 15 - 262-267 Class 9 - 240 Class 18 - 268-273 Class 10 - 241-248 Class 19 - 274-280 Class 13 - 249-256 Class 20 - 274-280 Class 14 - 257-261

Class 5 - 255-261 Class 6 - 262-265 Class 7 - 266-269 Class 8 - 270 Class 9 - 270

DUROC Class 25 - 240-251 Class 26 - 252-265 Class 27 - 266-279 Class 28 - 280

WHITE OPB Class 31 - 240-248 Class 32 - 249-271 Class 33 - 272-280

POLAND CHINA DARK CROSSBRED CHESTER WHITE Class 46 - 240-263 Class 50 - 240-243 Class 64 - 240-250 Class 47 - 264-280 Class 51 - 240-243 Class 65 - 251-269 Class 52 - 244-253 Class 66 - 270-280 Class 53 - 254-260 Class 54 - 261-267 Class 55 - 268-276 Class 56 - 277-280 Class 57 - 277-280

YORKSHIRE Class 69 - 240-248 Class 70 - 249-257 Class 71 - 258-268 Class 72 - 269-276 Class 73 - 277-280 Class 74 - 277-280

SPOT Class 44 - 240-245 Class 45 - 246-258 Class 46 - 259-270 Class 47 - 271-280

CHESTER & OPB Class 76 - 240-248 Class 77 - 249-262 Class 78 - 263-275 Class 79 - 276-280

YORKSHIRE Class 17 - 204-248 Class 18 - 249-262 Class 19 - 264-273 Class 20 - 277-280

DARK CROSS Class 50 - 240 Class 51 - 240 Class 52 - 241-249 Class 53 - 250-255 Class 56 - 256-263 Class 57 - 264-269 Class 58 - 270-277 Class 59 - 278-280

YORKSHIRE Class 64 - 240 Class 65 - 241-251 Class 66 - 252-258 Class 69 - 259-267 Class 70 - 268-279 Class 71 - 280

LANDRACE Class 81 - 240-267 Class 82 - 270-280

BLACK OPB Class 36 - 240 Class 37 - 241-256 Class 38 - 257-270 Class 99 - 271-280

YORKSHIRE Class 41 - 240-248 Class 42 - 249-270 Class 43 - 271-280

OTHER CROSSBRED Class 85 - 240 Class 95 - 263-265 Class 86 - 240-241 Class 96 - 266-268 Class 87 - 240-241 Class 97 - 269-271 Class 88 - 242-245 Class 98 - 272-275 Class 91 - 246-248 Class 99 - 276-279 Class 92 - 249-254 Class 100 - 280 Class 93 - 255-258 Class 101 - 280 Class 94 - 259-262 Class 102 - 280

OTHER CROSSBRED Class 82 - 240-241 Class 93 - 258-260 Class 83 - 240-241 Class 94 - 261-264 Class 84 - 240-241 Class 95 - 265-267 Class 85 - 240-241 Class 98 - 268-271 Class 86 - 242-245 Class 99 - 272-274 Class 87 - 246-248 Class 100 - 275-277 Class 90 - 249-252 Class 101 - 278-280 Class 91 - 253-255 Class 102 - 278-280 Class 92 - 256-257 Class 103 - 278-280

OTHER CROSSBRED Class 21 - 240 Class 28 - 254-257 Class 22 - 240 Class 29 - 258-261 Class 23 - 240 Class 30 - 262-265 Class 24 - 240 Class 31 - 266-269 Class 25 - 241-244 Class 32 - 270-273 Class 26 - 245-248 Class 33 - 274-276 Class 27 - 249-253 Class 34 - 278-280 Class 35 - 278-280

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DO IT don't

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or

DO IT

60

at all By: Kayla M. Wilkins

T

l

he excitement begins to build standing ringside as the final three barrows are driving for the win. A handshake from the judge signifies one from your farm takes the banner. The energy in the air and the thrill on the kid’s face is contagious. For some, those moments are arguably the best part of raising show pigs.

That feeling is quite familiar and cherished for Jacksboro, Texas, native, Kevin Thomas. Thomas, or ‘Big Cat’, is the ag teacher in Jacksboro and also operates Thomas Showpigs with his wife, Christy and kids, Kamlynn, 17, and Kobe, 13.

The Thomas family travels across the country exhibiting hogs and spends countless hours on the front-end preparing. Today, raising and showing hogs has become part of their livelihood, but that hasn’t always been the case.

Rooted in Agriculture

working with young people, helping them be successful, not just in high school, but in life.”

Although Thomas is working as the Jacksboro ag teacher today, he began his career in Midway, Texas. However, It wasn’t long before a transition to Bryson ISD resulted in a newfound passion — most specifically in the show pig industry. In this new role, he inherited a group of swine enthusiasts within the FFA program that had 100-125 show hogs on feed under his advisement. Prior to his time with Bryson, he hadn’t spent much time in the hog barn, but jumped in headfirst and worked tirelessly to make the program the best it could be for the kids.

Thomas first became involved in raising show pigs to aid his students, who were on a limited budget, in their goal to exhibit hogs competitively at their county show.

Because of the need present, he The FFA program is not based and a group of parents decided to begin raising hogs on the around the belief that every kids gets school farm.

Thomas grew up with a a ribbon. They may work hard and not Thomas soon saw the heavy agriculture influence, potential his kids and the as his father was an succeed, but the experiences they do program had, so taking this agriscience teacher. The step on behalf of his students learn will shape them into the adults passion for the agriculture was a no-brainer. As an ag industry and desire to help they will become. teacher, he realizes education kids was bred into him and happens both in and out of the has always been a huge part of classroom. The experience his his life. Additionally, his personal students can gain from raising and involvement showing market lambs exhibiting livestock has served as an excellent and leadership in FFA and 4-H was prevalent extension of his classroom. He believes kids throughout his childhood, laying the foundation learn responsibility, work ethic and how to set goals for his success today. through showing at all levels.

The desire to continue working with livestock and “They also learn how to bounce back from their youth resulted in pursuing an agricultural education degree. He graduated from Tarleton State University failures because livestock will create many challenges they will face,” he said. “The FFA program is not in 1996. Upon graduation, he stepped into the based around the belief that every kids gets a ribbon. classroom fulfilling his lifelong passion.

They may work hard and not succeed, but the experiences they do learn will shape them into “I always knew I wanted to be a part of the youth the adults they will become.” livestock industry and teaching seemed like the perfect fit for me,” Thomas explained. “I enjoy

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Following a passion The enthusiasm of the students at Bryson FFA, paired with his newfound enjoyment for hogs, fueled Thomas to put in countless hours in an effort to improve himself and the program.

After a number of years, the opportunity to return to Jacksboro as the ag teacher, which he always dreamt of, presented itself. Without hesitation, he jumped at the opening. He is now settled there and the decision was born to continue raising show pigs.

He and the family launched Thomas Showpigs in 2002 as a small operation that has now evolved into much more. What started as two sows has grown to a high quality sowherd of 60, currently farrowing year-round with up to 45 litters in the summer months. Their focus is predominantly crossbred stock, but they also breed York, Berkshires and Chesters.

A successful program does not develop overnight. Thomas realizes it takes time and dedication to grow as a breeder and did not let the hard work get in the way of his vision for Thomas Showpigs.

“My passion grew for the show pig industry,” he said. “I spent countless hours studying genetics and results to build my own breeding program.”

He’s quick to credit two particular boars who have helped his genetic base make great strides — Warfare and Best Man. He said those two boars have made the biggest impact on their herd with 75% of their current sows’ pedigrees tracing back to them.

While those two boars’ influence on the operation is key, he attributes much of his know-how to Mike Fischer of Fischer Show pigs in Iowa Park, Texas.

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“He helped me learn the ins-and-outs of the show pig business,” Thomas noted. “We spent many hours on the road discussing hogs and he was instrumental in my start and passion for the industry. He hauled me to other state fairs and introduced me to a lot of Midwest breeders.”

Thomas noted being an ag teacher during that era, he found himself too often focused on muscle and power alone. Fischer helped him understand the importance of balance, design and structure. Further, Fischer instilled the idea that building a functional sow herd is the key to a successful operation.

It was advice like Fischer’s, paired with trials on his own that developed his philosophy in raising show pigs.

“I want to raise competitive show pigs that work for my customer,” Thomas said. “My belief is everything starts with the sow herd.

The sows must be balanced, complete and be as problem free as they can be.

The backbone of every show pig operation is the sow herd.”

Although Thomas has learned a lot since his start, fifteen years in the industry does not come and go without some obstacles all their own. As other producers can relate, Thomas said the biggest challenge for him is to stand out as a breeder in today’s marketplace.

“One, there’s an increase in the number of breeders in the industry and great genetics are more readily available to breeders,” he explained. “Two, there are more avenues available to customers buying hogs via numerous online sales, live auctions and farm sales. All that combined, you’ve got customers with greater access to highly marketable pigs than ever before, so standing out as a producer of club pigs has become increasingly more challenging.”

Having success in this highly competitive game and then continuing to sustain customer demand adds a new level of complexity for breeders, as well.

This present-day challenge directly relates with a conversation he had with the savvy Rory Duelm while sitting in the bleachers of the San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo years ago. According to Thomas, some of the best advice he had as a young breeder spurred from that conversation.

“He told me when you are running a show pig business, never over produce what your customers’ demands are,” he explained. “You want to stay successful.”

While keeping Rory’s advice close to heart and following it, it is safe to say there’s more than just repeat customers at Thomas Showpigs. For Big Cat, one reason for the demand, aside from raising quality pigs, is what he stands for in his approach to the program.

“My focus has always been on building relationships and offering extra customer service by standing behind my hogs, being honest and fair with my customers,” he explained.

An educator and a breeder Futuristically speaking, Thomas has high expectations for his family, students and show pig business. Although the list of goals adds up quickly, his kids’ future easily ranks first.

“I’m a family man first and education is obviously something I care about tremendously,” he said.

“For me, putting both of my kids through college is at the top of my goal list.”

Although his main focus now is being a father and teacher, he does not lose sight of the long-term goals for Thomas Showpigs. In 10 years when he retires from teaching, Thomas hopes to channel his energy more on their hog farm.

“Just like in sports, winning championships and majors is what athletes strive for,” he explained.

“For us raising stock, winning a Texas major would be the pinnacle.”

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Beyond that, he hopes the freedom after retirement will open doors for him to take leadership roles in TPPA like he has with the Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas, where he serves on the board of directors, and his role on the animal industries committee in Texas FFA. Additionally, he looks forward to attending more national type conferences and the Indiana State Fair boar show to provide him the opportunity to continue what he has a passion for on a larger scale to a larger audience.

It is evident his passion for the industry as a whole and the show pig world specifically will never end.

The excitement and desire to play an active role in the youth livestock industry is with him for life.

He said the junior livestock program is the greatest platform for teaching youth many vital life lessons.

Over the years, he has seen an increase in stock show numbers, breeders and enthusiasm, and predicts the trend will continue. He sees the industry growing with opportunity across the state and said it is an exciting time to be involved in the industry in multiple facets.

Since his start 20 years ago, Texas alone has seen an increase in registration on show pigs and even a larger increased margin in swine exhibitors.

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“Our state is the envy of all other states when it comes to the number of animals we show and the amount of scholarships and support we give our youth in the state of Texas,” he said. “We need to preserve and protect these livestock shows by playing by the rules and promoting our products to the consumer, so future students will have the same opportunities that we currently have available.”

He said he stresses to his students and his own kids that showing is fun, but it is vital to remember there is a bigger world out there beyond the ring. He strives to inform his students that activists groups are a serious threat to agriculture and the freedom producers have. As a consumer, a teacher, a breeder, and a father, he sees the challenges as a chance to push the industry forward.

“We should use this as an opportunity to educate and inform, continue to do things the right way and be transparent,” he explained. “Showing livestock is fun and has a world of benefit and value, but it’s just a tiny part of agriculture. We need to think about the commercial sector and realize we’re a part of it too.”

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69

ask Expert ?

THE

Jeffrey D. Logue, D.V.M.

- Zero Tolerance Drug Testing What Does It Mean?

I hope that for anyone in the show pig industry, the title of this article catches your attention. No one wants their show pig to drug test positive at a show. We do not need this negative publicity adversely affecting all of the positive qualities that are gained from showing animals. This is a topic that I feel affects every one of us, from the show pig producer, to the family showing pigs at the major shows, to the veterinarian involved in the care of those animals. I do not intend to have all the answers on this subject, but what I hope will transpire, is to start some conversation about what we, as an industry, can do to keep our animals healthy and comfortable, yet able to pass a drug test.

Showing pigs is a privilege that we should never take for granted. It is imperative that as an industry, we protect what we love the most. Whether you show for the sheer joy of competition, or whether it is your livelihood, this industry still has a responsibility to the consumer of pork products, that what is bought in the store is drug free.

There are many steps and programs in place to assure that drug residues do not show up in your pork chops you fix for dinner. Withdrawal times for all medications should be followed exactly, and drugs that are illegal or not approved in food animals should NEVER be used. Our duty is to protect the consumer so that they can be guaranteed a product they can trust.

Extensive testing and research must be done by drug companies to have their medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medications include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories/pain medications, and vaccines. The FDA then determines what the withdrawal times are so the products are safe for the food supply.

The FDA also has an extensive list of medications that have been proven to not be safe or approved for use in food animals because of the residues that are harmful to humans if ingested.

Following these rules and regulations can indeed be difficult at times, however, it is critical that we abide by these guidelines set by the FDA. In addition to the FDA regulations that are in place, another great safeguard that educates everyone in the pork industry is the Pork Quality Assurance Program, or the PQA. Parents, exhibitors, and producers are required to be certified in PQA. This is a wonderful program because it teaches proper care of the animal, as well as protection of the food supply. PQA also educates as to what a veterinary/client relationship looks like, record keeping, and proper administration and withdrawal times of drugs.

Whether exhibitors ever become involved directly in agriculture, they can still be advocates for the industry knowing how the safeguards that are in place, work. The role of the veterinarian is also key in this process. Since many of the medications used to treat our animals are prescription only, they must be dispensed by a veterinarian.

We must all work together to ensure that our pork industry, whether that is showing or commercial, stays in a positive light regarding the ethical treatment and outcome for our animals. This may be easier said then done however, when it comes to drug testing.

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Zero tolerance drug testing has me very concerned for the future of the show pig industry and the public’s perception of what actually happens within our show rings and at home. Zero tolerance is the time that it takes for all drug residues to be eliminated from the body. Withdrawal time is the period of time that must pass after a medication has been given for the meat to be determined safe for consumption by humans. However, these two definitions very often do not match. As you can guess, the elimination period in most cases, is longer than the labeled withdrawal time. The FDA has determined what withdrawal times are for each specific medication and that is clearly stated on a drug label. However, no such elimination time on the label exists. So it is very possible to have followed the label withdrawal times, but an animal will still test positive for a medication under the zero tolerance plan.

I have reviewed the guidelines from many shows about how to avoid drug residues, and they all come back to the same statement, “consult your veterinarian.” Obviously, not a helpful answer for any one. As we all know, injuries and illnesses happen, often near the time of a show. Many times, we would still be outside that window of the withdrawal time for a medication to help the animal make a full recovery before the show. However, because of the zero tolerance policy, I have to advise my clients that if treated, there is a chance their pig could test positive at the show even though we are following the rules set by the FDA. So we have to choose between treating and helping the animal recover but risk the stigma and loss of a win because of a positive drug test, or not to treat the animal who is then suffering and not getting the appropriate care. Neither choice is good. Not only does the suffering animal bother me, but my bigger concern is when the treated animal tests positive even though the withdrawal times were followed, and then the public finds out but only sees one side of the issue. This is a serious problem since all the consumer hears is that there was a drug used in an animal that was “illegal.” What they don’t hear is that withdrawal times were adhered to and the meat would have been perfectly safe to be consumed.

I am not naïve, and I know we do not live in a perfect world. I know that withdrawal times are not always followed.

I know non-approved medications are used and I know people cheat and always will. I do know that I believe testing should be done to protect the integrity of the shows and make the playing field even for everyone. My concern is that we may have not found the best system to do that yet. I took an oath as a veterinarian to prevent animal suffering. With zero tolerance testing, I am not able to keep that oath. We must find a testing protocol which allows us to still treat our animals as needed, stay within the FDA guidelines, and still test negative at shows. There are some alternative nonmedicine treatments which we will explore in future articles. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but for now, we all need to be advocates for our industry. We need to ask the hard questions and try to find solutions that will make our show industry the best it can be for everyone.

About Dr. Jeff Logue A previous speaker at the Texas Pork Industry Conference, and a regular contributor to the Producer Connection magazine, Dr. Jeff Logue’s knowledge and enthusiasm is always appreciated. Dr. Logue grew up on a commercial farm in Indiana.

He graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue. He now owns his own practice and also provides medical and surgical services to the show pig industry.

He and his family enjoy showing pigs all over the country.

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e h t f o s r o s n y o r p t s S i g 7 e R 201 d e r B s a x e T d e i f i t Cer

On behalf of the Texas Pork Producers Association membership and Texas 4-H and FFA exhibitors, we want to say THANK YOU to our Certified Texas Bred Registry Sponsors for the 2017 show year. This group of dedicated individuals, businesses and organizations make it possible for us to continue recognizing the achievements that Texas swine breeders and exhibitors earn in the show ring. Without our sponsors, the Certified Texas Bred Registry program would not be possible. We greatly appreciate your constant commitment to this association and our youth, and good luck this show season!

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ADM Moorman’s ShowTec

National Pork Board

Harman Farms

TPPA is very appreciative for ADM MoorMan’s ShowTec for their continued sponsorship of the Grand Champion Barrow trophy, in addition to serving as our Overall Title Sponsor.

Moorman’s has gone above and beyond with their generosity and support of the CTBR program and we couldn’t be more excited about the future. Winning performance is a priority and a tradition for ADM Alliance Nutrition®.

That’s why exhibitors and breeders choose MoorMan’s® ShowTec® products. Proven performance from Innovative Nutrition® is evident in the many Grand and Reserve Grand Champion animals that were fed MoorMan’s ShowTec products.

The National Pork Board, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, is one of our association’s most valuable partners. TPPA is an affiliation of the National Pork Board, providing us with a strong backing, as both organizations work to protect and promote the swine industry.

The National Pork Board strives to elevate U.S. pork as the global protein of choice by continuously and collaboratively working to do what’s right for people, pigs and the planet. The National Pork Board and Pork Checkoff are the links that unite America’s pork producers with key stakeholders focused on building a bright future for the pork industry through research, promotion and education.

Wayne and Leslie Harman, of Perryton, are selflessly providing this year’s CTBR Foundation Gilt.

As a national leader in producing high quality show pigs and breeding stock, and a perennial CTBR Top Ten Breeder, the Harman’s enthusiasm in donating one of their best for the benefit of Texas youth is greatly appreciated. No matter how many banners and buckles their pigs win, Wayne and Leslie find molding and teaching young people to be the most rewarding aspect of raising hogs. Without hesitation, they gladly accepted the responsibility in donating a tremendous gilt that can truly serve as the cornerstone of a breeding program. We sincerely thank you for your support!

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DL Show Pigs Harman Farms Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics DL Show Pigs takes pride in providing today’s youth with quality and winning show pigs, and looks forward to helping existing and new customers with their future show ring successes. Josh and Bridgette, along with their daughter Kenley and son Thomas, raise competitive Hampshire, Yorkshire, Duroc and Crossbred show hogs and operate a diverse boar stud. The Krohn’s are two of the hardest working and most dedicated individuals you’ll meet, always there to provide support.

Josh serves on the TPPA Board of Directors, while Bridgette is an active leader with several TPPA committees. A sponsor of two awards, we greatly appreciate DL Show Pigs for sponsoring both the Supreme Champion Gilt trophy and the Champion Yorkshire Barrow buckle.

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Customer success and satisfaction, that is the foundation that Harman Farms has built their operation on. They focus on raising highly competitive show pigs and breeding stock that continue to win in the show ring year after year. In addition to raising show pigs, Harman Farms operates a small boar stud, featuring proven boars that are utilized in their own genetic program, as well as other successful breeding programs, across the nation. When you purchase an animal from Wayne and Leslie, you are not only buying the animal, but you also gain access to their training, feeding, fitting, and showmanship resources.

We thank them for sponsoring the Reserve Supreme Champion Gilt trophy.

For over 40 years Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics has been a leading source for consistent, predictable genetics that yield champion results through out the United States; producing 30 grand or reserve grand champion barrows at Texas majors. Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics have pigs available all year round for most county shows, and majors in the country, so existing and potential customers are welcome to come to the farm, visit with Rory and pick out their next champion at anytime.

Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics also offers semen on industry-leading barrow sires. As a sponsor of two awards, TPPA greatly appreciates Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics for sponsoring both the Champion Crossbred Barrow and Gilt buckles.

Sponsors of the Texas Stars Gilt Show

Real Hog Farms

Making champion kids through champion hogs is what Real Hog Farms is all about. For over 50 years, The Real Family has made the purebred hog business their fulltime passion, and have established a strong and successful reputation in the process. Real Hog Farms farrow approximately 110 sows year round, offering quality Duroc, Yorkshire, Berkshire, Hampshire and Crossbred seedstock and show pigs to their customers. Chuck and Debbie deeply appreciate their customers and the hog industry, and love watching its young people grow and develop in such a positive environment. TPPA is very grateful for Real Hog Farms sponsorship of the Champion Purebred Gilt buckle.

McCleery Family Durocs

The McCleery Family has a passion for the Duroc breed and that passion is visible by the quality of Duroc show pigs they produce, which is seen on all levels. In addition to serving on the TPPA Board of Directors, Cody is on the National Swine Registry Executive committee and the Duroc Board of Directors. Although Durocs are the family’s specialty, they also offer a few crossbred litters as well as offering semen on their select set of boars. We thank the McCleery Family for sponsoring the Reserve Champion Crossbred Gilt buckle.

Peugh Show Pigs

Peugh Show Pigs has worked hard to combine a strong sow herd with the top boar genetics available to produce nothing but STINKIN’ GOOD PIGS! Cody, Shanna and their three girls farrow Yorkshire, Hampshire, Duroc and Crossbred sows, raising quality show projects for their exhibitors. Always in the barns, you can always count on Cody to lend a helping hand and offer support throughout the year. TPPA greatly appreciates Peugh Show Pigs and their sponsorship of the Reserve Champion Purebred Gilt buckle.

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West Texas Genetics Belew & Young Wall Swine Breeders

Wall swine Starting with eight sows as early as 2009, West Texas Genetics was founded on functional genetics and livestock that produce honest results! With their success and committment, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve expanded fast, and today, West Texas Genetics is composed of over 50 Chester, Duroc, Spot, and Crossbred sows. The focus is on elite seedstock and show pig production, in conjunction with supplying top quality semen from their show pig sires. In the short time since the establishment of West Texas Genetics, their passion for show pigs has proved prosperous, having won top honors at shows across Texas and national type conferences. TPPA is grateful for Clint and Julie Halfmann sponsoring the Champion White OPB Barrow buckle.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no denying the amount of effort and time spent working with youth that Denny Belew and Stanley Young have devoted over the years. With their portfolios including extensive work in extension, agriculture education, TPPA Board of Directors, volunteerism and breeders in a swine partnership that formed before the CTBR program even started, Belew & Young are committed to the pork industry and its youth, both serving on numerous statewide committees and contributing extensively with the Texas Pork Leadership Camp.

We are very thankful for Belew & Young, and their sponsorship of the Champion Hampshire buckle.

breeders Graciously serving as a sponsor since the inception of the CTBR shows at San Angelo, the Wall Swine Breeders is a group composed of show pig producers in the Wall and San Angelo area. What started out as a few breeders getting together to put on a pig sale, has developed into a structured local association that also supports the youth participating in junior swine programs. We thank Wall Swine Breeders for sponsoring the Reserve Champion Yorkshire Barrow buckle.

San Angelo Barrow Show Sponsors 80

W. Rode & Sons

W. Rode & Sons have been raising show pigs, in the Hill Country, since 1970. The operation continuously raises high quality show pigs, and are especially recognized for their Duroc herd. The family are longtime supporters and friends of the TPPA, serving on several committees and are a staple at numerous TPPA and livestock functions. We are thankful that W. Rode & Sons is sponsoring the Champion Duroc buckle.

Creative Awards & Trophies

Owned by the Rode Family, Creative Awards & Trophies is no stranger to the junior livestock program. Since taking over the company in 1992, the Rode Family has grown Creative Awards & Trophies into a nationally renowned business whose clientele includes every Texas major, the San Antonio Spurs, World Pork Expo and numerous other events. TPPA values the effort this crew puts into their work and is appreciative of Creative Awards & Trophies for sponsoring the Reserve Champion Duroc Barrow buckle.

Dale Wilde

We thank Dale Wilde for sponsoring the Reserve Champion White OPB buckle. The Wilde family has been a fixture in the Wall agriculture community for years where they have farmed and raised high quality show hogs. Dale has been heavily involved in the show pig industry for years. He is a previous Director of TPPA and currently serves as the Superintendent of the Junior Gilt Show for the San Angelo Stock Show.

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Knight Show Pigs K&C Farms Samm’s Hog Farm

Stan and Mary McMullen, longtime CTBR award sponsors, are always a familiar face at the San Angelo Stock Show. You can find Stan welcoming exhibitors and serving on the swine committees and Mary encouraging the youth.

The McMullen’s are originally from Louisiana, where Stan ran a commercial hog farm.

Since transitioning to Texas, the McMullen’s have been dedicated supporters of the Texas youth livestock programs. Samm’s Hog Farm specialized in the production of Black OPB show pigs, and Mary previously worked in Extension, but now they are enjoying the freedoms of retirement. TPPA thanks Samm’s Hog Farm for sponsoring the Reserve Champion Dark OPB buckle.

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Kenneth and Caroline have spent many years dedicated to youth and the junior livestock program in Texas. An agriculture teacher for 31 years, Kenneth went up and down the road all over the state hauling students and pigs, among other livestock. Now retired, Kenneth and Caroline continue their involvement through their work on the TPPA Board as well as the countless hours volunteering on several San Antonio Stock Show committees.

Kenneth has raised hogs from the time he was a youngster, and with Caroline, these two don’t seem to be slowing down. Our association is very thankful for K&C Farms sponsoring the Reserve Champion Hampshire buckle.

Knight Show Pigs is a fourth generation family operation that focuses on the production of champion show pigs and high quality breeding stock. They have a strong emphasis on youth development, putting on several camps each year. While maintaining about 30 elite sows, Tadd and Scotta have been recognized as a Top 10 Breeder in the Certified Texas Bred Program for seven years! Their show winning experience and track record over the years translates into show ring consistency that is second to none for their customers. We are thankful for Knight Show Pigs sponsorship of the Reserve Champion Crossbred Barrow buckle.

Mund Livestock Schwartz Livestock

Schwartz Livestock is greatly appreciated for their sponsorship of the Champion Dark OPB buckle. Schwartz Livestock was founded on the values of family and agriculture. Erwin Sr. started the operation with hard work and now keeps everyone in line. Erwin Jr., known as Frankie, along with Dale and Randall operate the farm, which now runs around 100 sows and farms a tremendous amount of land. The Schwartz Family are leaders of the Wall community and lead the swine committee at the San Angelo Stock Show.

Making quality count is the motto for this family business. Mund Livestock focuses on producing high quality pigs that are raised to be competitive at the major stock shows across the nation. Brad, Casey and Brice take pride in the genetics that they have gathered to help their litters have the ability to hang banners. Mund Livestock is a family ran operation that enjoys helping other families and kids accomplish their show ring goals. Mund Livestockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsorship of the Reserve Grand Champion Barrow trophy is greatly appreciated.

Title Sponsor & Grand Champion Barrow Trophy

Your commitment to TPPA and the CTBR program is greatly appreciated!

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Producer Connection

Advertisers Index Cornerstone Ventures, LLC. ...............................1 DL Showpigs ....................................................66 Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics ..............................85 Harman Farms..................................................23 HF Genetics ................................................... IBC KC Show Photos ..............................................27 Moorman’s ShowTec ....................................... FC Premier Initiative ...............................................58 Prestage Farms ................................................25 Real Hog Farm ............................................... IFC Texas Tech Judging Camps ..............................48 The Pig Planet ............................................68-69 Underdog Genetics ..........................................86 Water Tight Roofing ..........................................59 West Texas Genetics.. ................................ 72-73 Wintex Farms ..................................................BC

Advertise with TPPA * Producer Connection * E-Blast * Website Be seen by the people buying your pigs!

FIND US ON

TPPA Wishes everyone the best of luck & safe travels this show season!

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Duelm â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s Prevailing Genetics

Semen available on 20 barrow making sires. All pigs sold on the farm.

ODDBALL

UNCOMMON

RORY | 830.608.5058

MATT | 830.708.4272

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS WWW.DUELMSPREVAILINGGENETICS.COM

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