The pork industry has a long-standing record of environmental consciousness. Pork producers have always been pro-active in establishing solid environmental management programs, in adopting new technologies, and in building positive relationships with their rural neighbors.
National Hog Farmer and the National Pork Board jointly sponsor a program to recognize those pork producers who have built exemplary environmental management programs in their pork production systems.
Now in its ninth year, nominations are now open for the 2003 Environmental Stewards of the Pork Industry awards. We are looking for pork producers who consistently and successfully manage their pork production systems in harmony with our valuable natural resources.
The Environmental Stewards recognition program is open to pork production systems of all types and sizes. Since 1995, nominations have come from family operations as well as pork production management teams working within a larger pork production system. Nominations should be focused on a single production site, outlining the owner's and/or manager's diligence in protecting our environmental resources.
Nominations for the 2003 Environmental Stewards are due no later than March 31. A national selection committee comprised of pork producers and experts from various disciplines, including natural resources, environmental management and other pork industry professionals, will review all nominations.
The selection committee focuses on eight primary areas:
General production and background of the operation.
The farm's manure management systems including manure collection, transport and storage and the type of land application used. Present details about the utilization of manure nutrients, how the manure management program fits into the overall farming operation, including the financial benefits of the manure nutrient management system.
Soil conservation practices used to conserve soil resources, maintain soil fertility and protect water sources. Detail weed and pest management programs used to protect the environment. Include financial benefits of the conservation and management programs.
Technologies and management strategies used to reduce odors and improve air quality surrounding the farm.
Farm aesthetics, neighbor and community relations.
Efforts to promote and manage wildlife habitat.
Innovative ideas applied to the operation's environmental management plan.
A written statement, 500 words or less, addressing: “What Environmental Stewardship Means to Me.”
This information and additional questions are detailed on an easy-to-use nomination form available by contacting the sponsors: Carrie Tengman, Environmental Services Director, National Pork Board at (800) 456-7675 or through their Web site: www.porkboard.org (click on “Environmental Stewards” under the “Pork Production” heading to access nomination form). You may also call National Hog Farmer at (800) 722-5334 or visit www.nationalhogfarmer.com and click on the Environmental Stewards link.
Pork producers, swine unit managers and other pork industry professionals may submit nominations. Each of four winners will receive a special plaque, an expense-paid trip to the awards program and a $1,000 cash honorarium.
Send nominations to: Carrie Tengman, National Pork Board, P.O. Box 9114, Des Moines, IA 50306 or fax to (515) 223-2646 or e-mail: carrie.tengman@porkboard.org.