(Des Moines) — Plymouth County pork producers, Ben and Janelle Johnson of rural Ireton were honored this past week at the Iowa Pork Congress during the annual Master Pork Producers Banquet. The Johnson’s, were given the honor of “All-American Pork Producer,” which is the top award presented to a pork producer. In order to be eligible, the nominee must have already achieved the honorable status of being a “Master Pork Producer” and also under the age of 40. The Johnson’s raise 4800 head of hogs. Ben comments on their pork production operation.
Janelle works with the Plymouth County Extension office, but also devotes time for the family operation.
Ben says he has been around swine production since he was a young boy, and says he knew from an early age he wanted to be a pork producer. The Johnson’s are active members and directors of the Plymouth County Pork Producers Association, and they participate in the Plymouth County “Adopt a Pig” program, plus, they open their farm to young people, exposing them to the farming lifestyle. They say it is important to educate young people about pork production and agriculture.
Ben says his philosophy with agriculture is he wants others to know that farmers care about their animals, and their land, and they strive to protect both aspects of their livelihood.
Also honored during the Iowa Pork Congress Annual Awards Banquet was Plymouth County Pork Producer, Steve Schroeder of rural Remsen. Schroeder was named as a “Master Pork Producer.”
