57th Annual South Dakota Pork Congress

2026 Pork Congress Seminar Speakers

Wednesday, January 14th

TQA Certification

Amphitheater ll @ 10:30 AM

Dr. Rafe Royall & Kaylyn Rudy, SDSU Extension Swine Specialists

Whether it’s transporting pigs to harvest or moving pigs between farms, animal handlers play a key role in maintaining herd health. This certification program consists of a presentation of a variety of topics like basic animal behavior and handling, transportation of pigs, fitness of the pig and biosecurity. Upon completion of this training course and passing the exam, you will receive a certificate card in the mail from the Pork Checkoff.

TRENT LOOS –“Too Much of What You Know, Isn’t So”

Amphitheater II @ 1:00 PM

Trent Loos is a 6th generation family farmer who is a fierce advocate for agriculture.

He has committed his life to speaking on behalf of hard-working farmers and ranchers of America and educating the consumer about the importance of understanding our source of foods.

Trent has spoken in 48 states, and on 4 continents, emphasizing the importance of food and fuel as a means of national security. His audience goes through a range of emotions – from laughter to tears but always leaves ready to be part of the solution.

PQA PLUS® Certification - Amphitheater ll @3:00 PM

Dr. Rafe Royall & Kaylyn Rudy, SDSU Extension Swine Specialists

The Pork checkoff’s Pork Quality Assurance® Plus (PQA Plus) program and producers’ commitment to the We Care® ethical principles have long provided guidance for responsible on-farm antibiotic use. At the certification seminar, Drs. Thaler and Samuel will walk you through the certification process and discuss the advantages of having your farm site certified, as well as reinforcing management techniques that enhance production and animal well-being. After completing this course, you will receive a certification card in the mail from the Pork Checkoff. The last component to the certification is the farm site assessment. To find an advisor in your area to assess your site, visit www. pork.org or call (800) 456-PORK.

Thursday, January 16th

Holly Cook Anderson – Pork Industry Economic Update

Amphitheater II 10:00 AM

Holly Cook Anderson is the National Pork Producers Council’s (NPPC) Economist and is responsible for providing economic support to NPPC staff. She collects and analyzes data related to hog prices, production, profitability, inventories, pork price spreads, national employment, food prices and exports. Anderson also conducts economic research related to the impacts of proposed policies and regulations on the pork industry and develops resources for staff and stakeholders. Anderson grew up on a farrow to finish swine operation in Winthrop, Iowa and has been involved in the pork industry her entire life. In addition to her agriculture background, Anderson holds a M.S. in agricultural economics from Iowa State University and a B.S. with double majors in agricultural business and economics, also from Iowa State.

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