These assets include a tradition of successful swine production, an abundant and inexpensive grain supply, the largest packing industry in the world and the swine expertise at ISU, IPIC, the Iowa Pork Producers Association and the National Pork Producers Council. Producers need to increase their business skills. They need to know their cost of production and how it is influenced. They need to get involved with groups, such as IPPA s market group, to be able to understand what they need to do when marketing their animals. Some may need to look at getting into niche markets and know what it takes to get into the value chain.
Education is important also.
The IPIC is the producer s link to what they need to know. We serve as an information and technology transfer between researchers and producers. As the pork industry changes and its challenges expand, IPIC and ISU Extension will be looking to new partners to accomplish the most successful combined effort possible. We need leadership at the producer, legislative, educational and governmental levels. More resources, long-term commitment and effort are essential to the successful completion of our mission.