The National Pork Industry Forum was hosted in Orlando, Florida March 8-10, 2023. This event, host

ed by the National Pork Board (NPB) and National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) for producers and industry members from across the country is a highlight of the year for PA Pork members.

Pork Forum brings industry members together to focus on key issues that impact the pork industry. Sessions provide opportunities for producers to learn about potential threats, seek solutions, have key discussions and ultimately vote on resolutions and elect board members.

Pennsylvania (PA) was well represented at the event with seven members attending. PA Pork Producers Council (PPPC) President Ben Barcovtch was in attendance, along with Jason Manbeck, Drew Derstein and Heidi Flory who served as representatives to the NPB Delegate body.

NPPC Delegate representatives from PA were Aaron Ott, Matthew Walters and Kurt Good.

Heidi Flory, pork producer from Hegins, PA was elected to the National Pork Board (NPB) Nominating Committee. Throughout 2023, Flory will be tasked with identifying board candidates to lead the NPB. “I’m truly honored to have been entrusted by the delegate body to join the NPB nominating committee. I look forward to working with my fellow producers from across the U.S. to promote our industry and bring forward new and dynamic candidates to support the mission of NPB”, said Flory.

Bob Ruth, retired past president of Country View Family Farms in Middletown, PA has served on the leadership team as vice president. In June, Bob will move into the president role.

PPPC President Ben Barcovtch who has attended several National Pork Forums said “each year, attending Pork Forum is a great time to hear from industry leaders, learn from other producers and reconnect with peers. I enjoy attending Forum, it’s in some ways like a family reunion”.

For more information on the PA Pork Producers Council and how to get involved, please contact Courtney Gray, cgray@papork.com or visit www.papork.com.

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market.