Master Pork Awards Program
The Master Pork Awards Program began in 1942 as an effort to stimulate pork and lard production and assist World War II efforts. The initial awards program focused on the total number of pigs weaned per farm and pigs weaned per litter.
The awards program has shifted program standards over the years, but still serves the initial objective
of promoting diversity, efficiency, and excellence in pork production in Iowa.
The awards program is a joint effort between the Extension Service at Iowa State University and the Iowa Pork Producers Association. The Master Pork Awards Program Selection Committee is made up of staff from the ISU Extension Service, the Iowa Pork Industry Center at Iowa State, and the Iowa Pork Producers Association. They are teaming up again in 2024 to recognize outstanding pork producers in Iowa.
You can make nominations for the 2024 awards until Aug. 1, 2024 for Master Pork Producer; Master Pork Partner; and the Iowa Environmental Steward Award. The Master Seedstock Producer nominations are handled by the Iowa Purebred Swine Council.
Two other awards, the Pork All American and the Honorary Master Pork Producer awards are determined by the IPPA Board of Directors.
Meet some of the 2023 Master Pork Producer winners.