Minnesota Pork plays a vital role in the agricultural economy, championing sustainable practices, supporting family farmers, and ensuring high-quality pork production. With over 3,000 family-run pig farms, Minnesota ranks second in the nation for both the value and volume of pigs raised. The Minnesota Pork Board supports these farms through education, research, and promotion, while building public trust by demonstrating ethical and sustainable farming practices.
Minnesota Pork Board’s Mission and Sustainability Goals
The Minnesota Pork Board’s commitment extends beyond just producing high-quality pork—it embraces environmental stewardship and community well-being. Pig farmers in Minnesota follow the “We Care®” ethical principles, a framework focused on continuous improvement across several key areas: environmental protection, animal welfare, food safety, public health, and community engagement.
Sustainability is at the heart of Minnesota’s pig farming efforts. Over the last six decades, pig farmers have made significant strides in reducing resource use per pound of pork produced. They’ve decreased land use by 75%, water consumption by 25%, and energy consumption by 7%. Additionally, they’ve cut carbon emissions by 8%, underscoring their commitment to mitigating climate impact while improving production efficiency. These practices reflect the industry’s ambition to become the most sustainable source of protein in the United States.
Looking forward, Minnesota Pork is focused on achieving even greater sustainability goals by promoting advanced technologies, innovative farming methods, and collaboration across the agricultural sector. Our long-term vision is to help secure a resilient food system that benefits both farmers and consumers.
Awards and Recognition
Minnesota Pork takes pride in recognizing individuals who contribute to the industry’s growth and success. The Distinguished Service Award is one such honor, awarded to Dave Preisler in 2024 for his nearly three-decade career advocating for farmers and navigating the evolving agricultural landscape. Preisler’s work in times of crisis, such as during H1N1 and COVID-19,
as well as his efforts to modernize farming practices, exemplifies the kind of leadership Minnesota Pork encourages and celebrates.
Additionally, Minnesota Pork fosters future talent through scholarships and internships, ensuring the next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders are well-prepared. Our ongoing education programs reflect our commitment to developing both the industry and rural communities.
Supporting Farmers and Building Community Trust
The Minnesota Pork Board provides essential support to farmers, helping them navigate challenges and implement sustainable practices. We also engage in community outreach, aiming to connect consumers with the families behind their food. As public interest in sustainable food systems grows, Minnesota Pork emphasizes not only the nutritional benefits of pork but also the responsible practices behind its production.
Our work fosters transparency and trust between farmers and consumers. By aligning production practices with societal values, Minnesota Pork ensures that family farms thrive while remaining accountable to the environment and their communities.
Conclusion
Minnesota Pork embodies the principles of sustainable agriculture, community service, and continuous innovation. With strong leadership, clear sustainability goals, and robust community engagement, we ensure the future of pork production in Minnesota is bright, sustainable, and built on trust. Our success is a testament to the resilience and dedication of Minnesota’s pig farmers, who strive to care for their animals, environment, and neighbors alike.
For more information about the Minnesota Pork Board and our initiatives, click here.
