Winter Pork Producer Programs Set

OTTAWA, Ohio — From swine health issues to reproductive management to nutritional assessments, pork producers and agricultural professionals can get the latest in research and industry-related information at the 2003 Ohio State University Extension Pork Producer Programs. The programs, carrying a theme of “Applying Knowledge for Profit,” will be held throughout Ohio from Jan. 15 to March 13. The programs are sponsored by the Ohio Pork Industry Center. “The meetings are geared towards pork producers and industry-affiliated people trying to tap into emerging issues or educational opportunities,” said Dale Ricker, an Ohio State Swine Extension associate and program coordinator. “For each of the six meetings around the state, we formed committees and solicited topics and speakers from producers from those areas. All we have to do is deliver the programs.” One topic of special interest to participants is an update on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency livestock permitting regulations. “On Dec. 16, the U.S. EPA changed some of the rules in terms of livestock permitting and the size of the operation,” said Ricker. “So there is some confusion as to when this will all be implemented and where it applies. We will be covering that topic at all the meetings to help clarify some issues.” Other topics include managing sow herd health to optimize performance, troubleshooting reproductive problems, marketing opportunities, composting certification, bio-security and pre-harvest food safety, and improving muscle quality. Speakers include researchers from Ohio State University and other universities, as well as industry professionals, veterinarians, nutritionists and producers. The following lists the dates, times and locations of each meeting. For more information or to register, contact the county Extension office for each meeting location, or log on to http://porkinfo.osu.edu. The registration fee for most of the meetings is $15. • Jan. 15: Kalida, Ohio; Knights of Columbus Hall; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; contact Dale Ricker or Glen Arnold at (419) 523-6294. • Jan. 22: Wilmington, Ohio; Clinton County Extension office; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; contact Tony Nye at (937) 382-0901. • Jan. 29: Urbana, Ohio; Champaign County Extension office; 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; contact Barry Ward at (937) 484-1526. • Feb. 26: Wilmot, Ohio; Amish Door Restaurant; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; contact Pat Rigby at (800) 398-7675. • March 12: Bucryus, Ohio; Public Library meeting room; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; contact the Crawford County Extension office at (419) 562-8731. • March 13: Fort Recovery, Ohio; American Legion Hall; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; contact the Mercer County Extension office at (419) 586-2179.