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APHIS Extends Comment Period on Strategic Plan Framework

In response to requests, stakeholders will have an additional 30 days to share their thoughts on the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) strategic plan to guide the agency's work over the next 5 years. Comments must be received by July 31, 2022. APHIS appreciates insights from all stakeholders and is looking forward to reviewing and considering these insights as we finalize the new strategic plan. We expect to finalize and publish the new strategic plan this fall and will post it on the APHIS website.

The strategic plan framework is a summarized version of the draft plan and provides highlights including the mission and vision statements, core values, strategic goals and objectives, and trends or signals of change we expect to influence the agency's work in the future.

Specifically, we are seeking insight on the following questions:

  • Are your interests represented in the plan?
  • Are there opportunities for APHIS to partner with others to achieve the goals and objectives?
  • Are there other trends for which the agency should be preparing?
  • Are there additional items APHIS should consider for the plan?
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CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

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From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.