Sarah M. Smith Washington State University

Publish Date: August 7, 2017

According to federal law, as mandated by the U.S. Congress, all producers (adult or youth) selling pigs for any reason, regardless of purpose, age, or sex of the animal, must pay Checkoff dues assessments unless an exemption has been granted by the National Pork Board based on the requirements of the Organic Exemption Request Form. The goals of the Pork Checkoff program are to strengthen the position of and expand the markets for pork and pork products through research, promotion, and education. This fact sheet has been developed to help county fair boards and youth livestock sale committee personnel ensure compliance with the mandated federal Pork Checkoff. Most Pork Checkoff funds are collected and used for promotion, research, and education at the national level. However, funds from the Pork Checkoff are also remitted back to respective states where the animals are raised for promotion, research, and education at the state level.

Publish Date: March 15, 2016

Food animal performance and profitability, meat quality, individual safety, family dynamics, and consumer perspectives are all impacted by the way people work livestock on the farm, in transportation or at exhibition. Using proper pig handling and movement practices will not only contribute to good animal care and performance, but will improve pig and human safety and public perception as youth prepare, transport, and exhibit pigs at fairs and shows. Proper pig handling will also improve youth and their family's experience and success in raising a swine project for exhibition.

Publish Date: November 12, 2014

Marketing pigs is an important aspect to profitable swine production. Pork processors have developed marketing grids that value carcasses. These grids are specific to each pork processor with premiums based on carcass weight and leanness. Although premiums depend on the pork processor, the overall trend is for processors placing more importance on carcass weight and importance on percent lean. Pigs need to be sold at an optimum weight in order to maximize profit.

Publish Date: June 15, 2017

This video will describe the tools, equipment and other items that are needed to go to the show.

Publish Date: June 15, 2017

The veterinary feed directive (VFD) is a written statement given to the animal owner by a veterinarian that is similar to a prescription.

Publish Date: June 15, 2017

Youth need to have a veterinary client patient relationship (VCPR). A VCPR is a working relationship with your veterinarian where he or she advises you in deciding what medications are appropriate for your animal.

Publish Date: June 15, 2017

This video provides an overview of preventing heat stress and keeping pigs comfortable at home, during transport to and from the show, and at the show.

Publish Date: June 15, 2017

Helping youth to identify fresh pork cuts. This video includes carcasses labeled with primal cuts and retail cuts.