California Pork Celebrates at Second Annual Meeting

The California Pork Producers Association (CPPA) was proud to gather with members, producers, families, and youth during the NJSA Western Regional in Paso Robles for our 2025 Annual Meeting. This year’s event brought together both longtime supporters and new faces who are working to promote  California’s pork industry.

CPPA President Brad Mendes led the evening highlighting the value of CPPA membership, key accomplishments from 2025, exciting program updates, and a forward-looking message from the National Pork Board about the work being done on behalf of pig farmers nationwide.

Throughout 2025, CPPA focused on strengthening communication, increasing member involvement, and expanding programs that serve both youth and producers. Several milestones were highlighted, including:

• Updated membership structure that introduced new categories for families, youth, students, and associates

• Increased digital presence and improved communication tools

• Expanded educational outreach and partnership opportunities

• Strengthened relationships with industry partners and regulatory agencies

• Continued support for youth and enhancement of the Junior Director Program

• Launch of the Certified California Bred Program (CCBP) to promote California-bred barrows and recognize both breeders and exhibitors

Attendees also heard from Clay Parrish, National Pork Board’s Show Pig Industry

Relations Manager, who provided an insightful update on national priorities and the current Pork Checkoff focus areas. Clay emphasized:

• The Pork Checkoff’s mission of research, promotion, and education

• A three-year strategic plan to strengthen consumer appeal, producer collaboration, and herd health

• Investment in show pig industry support, partnerships, resources, and leadership programs

• The importance of producer participation in shaping the National Swine Health Strategy

• Clay’s message reinforced the connection between state and national work and highlighted the value of unified industry efforts.

The  William “Bill” Silveira Scholarship is an award established to help cultivate future CPPA and agriculture industry leaders. The scholarship is presented to hard working and dedicated pork producers who are pursuing higher education with financial assistance. Our 2025 recipient is Grace Harkrader, of Kansas State University. Grace’s leadership, passion, and commitment to youth in agriculture and our industry made her a truly exceptional and deserving choice for this scholarship.

 The Annual Meeting also offered members a preview of programs and initiatives launching in 2026, including:

• More producer engagement and hands-on opportunities

• A statewide biosecurity campaign about being prepared before, during and after shows

• Expanded Junior Director industry tours

• Bringing back Swine Day in 2026

• A more robust Certified California Bred Program with updated breeder tiers, expanded county fair recognition, and elevated visibility at CYAE

These initiatives are designed to strengthen producer involvement, enhance youth leadership development, and support the long-term resilience of California’s pork industry.

From longtime members to first-time attendees, thank you to those of you who chose to join us for the California Pork Annual Meeting and Dinner in Paso Robles. The turnout, energy, and enthusiasm reflected the momentum building within our association and across California’s pork community.