Iowa Swine Day 2026 Brings Producers to Ames for One-Day Conference on Pork Industry Innovations
The day begins at 8 a.m. with a welcome address from David Cook, president of Iowa State University. Plenary speakers will cover gene editing, the use of artificial intelligence in swine production, and strategies for leading an industry in flux. After a midday meal, attendees can choose between applied‑practice tracks and research‑focused sessions that touch on nutrition, operations, animal welfare, sensor technology, facility management, swine health and emerging technologies. The full program has earned approval for 9.25 veterinary continuing‑education units.
Iowa Swine Day is built around the needs of swine producers. A planning committee that includes producers and industry representatives selects each topic, ensuring that the agenda remains tightly aligned with the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. pork sector. The conference also serves as a forum for discussing emerging regulatory requirements and market trends, reinforcing Iowa’s standing as a national leader in pork production.
Attendees pay a $115 registration fee, which is accepted until June 25 or until capacity is reached. All registrants receive an invitation to a pre‑conference networking social on Wednesday, June 24, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center (2508 Mortensen Road, Ames). The Iowa Swine Day website hosts the full program, registration details and venue directions. For additional information, participants may contact Stacie Matchan at sgould@iastate.edu.
The event is sponsored by MetaFarms, USDA‑APHIS and National Hog Farmer Inc. Their support helps shape the agenda and underscores the collaboration between academia, government and the private sector in advancing pork production.
The Gateway Hotel and Conference Center, a modern facility on the edge of the Iowa State University campus, offers ample meeting space and easy access via the university’s transportation network. Online registration through the Iowa Swine Day website allows participants to view the program, submit questions for speakers and download session materials. The fee covers all sessions, the pre‑conference social and access to the conference website.
The planning committee—composed of producers, veterinarians and research scientists—focuses on the most pressing issues for pork producers nationwide. By addressing real‑world challenges such as disease control, feed efficiency and market volatility, the agenda provides practical guidance for producers looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.