Stewards Set the Bar High

For the past 12 years the Pork Checkoff has sponsored the Environmental Steward Awards, which honor producers who are representative of the pork industry’s commitment to improving water and air quality, protecting the land and promoting wildlife.

“Some award winners employ new technologies, but others simply employ the sound environmental management practices that we believe are representative of all producers,” said National Pork Board President Danita Rodibaugh, member of the Pork Checkoff Environmental Committee.  “They are recognized because, in their own way, they have made protecting the land, air and water part of their day-to-day operations.”

The current award winners include:

• Maken Bacon Farm of Nevada, Ohio 

• Richardson Farms of Vicksburg, Mich.

• Saratoga Pork of Tracy, Minn.

• Treadway Ranch of McCurtain, Okla.

“The environmental stewards are great spokespeople to tell the story of pork production and the environment,” said Lynn Harrison, a producer from Elk Mound, Wis., and member of the National Pork Board.  He is a past winner.

“The program allows the industry to recognize the positive environmental impact pork producers can have,” said Harrison.  “I would personally encourage any producer to find out more information on how to become an environmental steward.  The program allows you to become involved and to make a difference.”

For details on the program,  co-sponsored by National Hog Farmer, go to pork.org or call (800) 456-PORK.