Regional pork meetings set for February

Feb 24, 2025

The annual series of Iowa Pork Regional Conferences has been a long-standing partnership of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa State University Extension and the Iowa Pork Industry Center, according to an Extension news release.

The goal to bring research and education to producers continues with this year’s topics:

Brian Blumhagen, director of operations, Altenburg Construction: What to inspect in hog barns, when to consider doing major repairs and what the repair, remodel or replacement costs will be.
Chris Rademacher, ISU Extension swine veterinarian: Composting practices to implement in your day-to-day operation and in case of a foreign animal disease.
ISU Extension agricultural engineers: Practical ways to improve barn ventilation, manage ventilation-related costs and run facilities more efficiently.
Gracie Greiner Marlow, IPPA sustainability manager: National Pork Board’s Pork Cares Farm Impact Reports provide data for the producer by tracking, measuring and monitoring conservation efforts in their operation.
ISU Extension swine specialists: Updates on issues and opportunities in respective areas.

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Video: Alternatives to Antibiotics - Dr. Luciana Rossi

In this special re-run episode of The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, we bring back our conversation with Dr. Luciana Rossi, Associate Professor at the University of Milan, who discusses alternatives to antibiotics in swine nutrition. She explores antimicrobial resistance, the role of functional ingredients, and the potential of biochar in improving gut health and sustainability. Tune in now on all major platforms!

"Biochar, a vegetable charcoal produced by pyrolysis, has shown potential in reducing diarrhea incidence and improving gut health in weaning piglets."

Meet the guest: Dr. Luciana Rossi https://www.linkedin.com/in/luciana-r... is an Associate Professor at the University of Milan, specializing in animal nutrition, biotechnology, and innovative feed strategies. Her work focuses on functional ingredients, edible vaccines, and alternatives to antimicrobials to improve swine health and sustainability. Her research advances nutritional solutions that reduce disease risk and environmental impact.