Honorary Master Pork Producer

Almost since the inception of the Master Pork Producer Awards, the Iowa Pork Producers Association has selected people who, through their work, have had a profound impact on the swine or pork industry. The IPPA Board of Directors considers nominations presented to them, and select one or two Honorary Master Pork Producers every year. 

Download the list of Honorary Master Pork Producers since the program began in 1944.You can also see profiles for our 2024 awardees below.

Kent Mowrer - Coalition to Support Iowa Farmers

As the Senior Field Coordinator for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, Kent was dedicated to advancing the state’s agricultural sector.

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Growing up on a family farm in Iowa, Kent Mowrer was deeply rooted in agriculture, a connection he maintained throughout his life. As the Senior Field Coordinator for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, Kent was dedicated to advancing the state’s agricultural sector.

 

Kent’s role involved visiting with livestock farmers to answer their questions, whether over the phone or by sitting down with them on their farms. His primary responsibility was to help Iowa’s livestock industry grow successfully and responsibly. Known for his extensive knowledge of rules and regulations, Kent was a valuable resource for farmers seeking guidance.

 

One of Kent’s significant achievements was his ability to facilitate the construction of new hog barns in counties that were not traditionally pig-friendly. His efforts often involved coaching young producers on how to communicate effectively with local supervisors, ensuring that their projects were approved. This knack for coaching and his passion for the livestock industry made him a beloved figure among farmers.

 

Kent’s commitment to the Coalition’s mission was evident in his work. The Coalition, which has been around for 20 years, focuses on helping Iowa’s livestock industry grow responsibly. The Coalition has worked with over 5,300 farmers, assisting with citing new barns, interpreting rules and regulations, enhancing neighbor relations, and implementing best management practices, all of which Kent was a big part of.

 

Kent’s integrity and thorough understanding of the industry set him apart. He was known for giving advice based on experience, not just what was written in manuals or textbooks. Farmers trusted him because he had been there and done that. His ability to deliver messages, even those that farmers might not like, with honesty and respect, earned him their admiration and trust.

 

Kent’s legacy lives on through the farmers he helped and the positive impact he had on Iowa’s agricultural community. His dedication to family and farming is a testament to his enduring legacy, one that continues to inspire those who knew him.

Mike Naig - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture

Growing up on a family farm near Cylinder, Iowa, Mike Naig has always been deeply rooted in agriculture, a connection he maintains to this day. As the 15th Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, elected in November 2018, Naig is dedicated to advancing the state’s agricultural sector.

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Growing up on a family farm near Cylinder, Iowa, Mike Naig has always been deeply

rooted in agriculture, a connection he maintains to this day. As the 15th Iowa Secretary
of Agriculture, elected in November 2018, Naig is dedicated to advancing the state’s

agricultural sector.

 

In a state where agriculture is a leading economic driver, Secretary Naig is acutely
aware of the importance of protecting Iowa’s natural resources. He is actively involved
in initiatives that foster public-private partnerships to safeguard the state’s air, soil, and
water. As Secretary, he is committed to expanding economic opportunities for Iowans

and advocates tirelessly for the hardworking men and women who keep the nation fed.

 

A significant aspect of Naig’s work includes his efforts within the pork industry. His early
experiences on a Farrow to Finish hog farm taught him the value of agriculture.
Secretary Naig can often be found at Iowa Pork Producers Association events such as

Bacon Buddies, Giving Tuesday and many more.

 

Although becoming Secretary of Agriculture wasn’t his initial career goal, an opportunity
presented by the late agriculture industry advocate Bill Northey led him down this path.
As Secretary, Naig continues to advocate for the success of livestock production,
recognizing its economic impact on the state and its importance to rural communities.
His leadership has also emphasized foreign animal disease preparedness,

demonstrating a model of effective public-private partnership.

 

In legislative matters, Secretary Naig balances the interests of both consumers and
producers, understanding the impact of regulations like Proposition 12. He is a strong
advocate for the agricultural community, fighting to mitigate the challenges posed by

such regulations.

 

Looking ahead, Naig envisions a bright future for Iowa’s agriculture, focusing on
collaboration and innovation to maintain the state’s leadership in the industry. He is
dedicated to making agriculture more productive and profitable for future generations,
continuing a legacy of excellence.