CLIVE, IOWA (January 27, 2025) —– The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is proud to announce Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, and Kent Mowrer, longtime Senior Field Coordinator for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, as 2024 Honorary Master Pork Producers.
The award-winners embody the diversity of Iowa’s pig farms and the dedicated individuals who support pork producers.
Mowrer receives this award posthumously.
Mike Naig — An Advocate for Iowa Agriculture
Growing up on a family farm near Cylinder, Iowa, Mike Naig has always been deeply rooted in agriculture, a connection he maintains to this day. As the 15th Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, elected in November 2018, Naig is dedicated to advancing the state’s agricultural sector.
In a state where agriculture is a leading economic driver, Sec Naig is acutely aware of the importance of protecting Iowa’s natural resources. He is actively involved in initiatives that foster public-private partnerships to safeguard the state’s air, soil, and water. As Secretary, he is committed to expanding economic opportunities for Iowans and advocates tirelessly for the hardworking men and women who keep the nation fed.
A significant aspect of Naig’s work includes his efforts within the pork industry. His early experiences on a Farrow to Finish hog farm taught him the value of agriculture. Sec Naig can often be found at Iowa Pork Producers Association events such as Bacon Buddies, Giving Tuesday, and many more.
Although becoming Secretary of Agriculture wasn’t his initial career goal, an opportunity presented by the late agriculture industry advocate Bill Northey led him down this path. As Secretary, Naig continues to advocate for the success of livestock production, recognizing its economic impact on the state and its importance to rural communities. His leadership has also emphasized foreign animal disease preparedness, demonstrating a model of effective public-private partnership.
In legislative matters, Sec Naig balances the interests of both consumers and producers, understanding the impact of regulations like Proposition 12. He is a strong advocate for the agricultural community, fighting to mitigate the challenges posed by such regulations.
Looking ahead, Sec Naig envisions a bright future for Iowa’s agriculture, focusing on collaboration and innovation to maintain the state’s leadership in the industry. He is dedicated to making agriculture more productive and profitable for future generations, continuing a legacy of excellence.
You can watch his story by visiting the Iowa Pork Producers Association's YouTube page.
Kent Mowrer — A Legacy of Helping Farmers
Growing up on a family farm in Iowa, Kent Mowrer was deeply rooted in agriculture, a connection he maintained throughout his life. As the Senior Field Coordinator for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, Kent was dedicated to advancing the state’s agricultural sector.
Kent’s role involved visiting with livestock-farmers to answer their questions, whether over the phone or by sitting down with them on their farms. His primary responsibility was to help Iowa’s livestock industry grow successfully and responsibly. Known for his extensive knowledge of rules and regulations, Kent was a valuable resource for farmers seeking guidance.
Pat McGonegle, CEO of Iowa Pork Producers Association, thought of Mowrer as a strong partner in the industry that the association could lean on. One of Kent’s significant achievements was his ability to facilitate the construction of new hog barns in counties that were not traditionally pig-friendly. His efforts often involved coaching young producers on how to communicate effectively with local supervisors, ensuring that their projects were approved. This knack for coaching and his passion for the livestock industry made him a beloved figure among farmers.
Kent’s commitment to the Coalition’s mission was evident in his work. The Coalition, which has been around for twenty years, focuses on helping Iowa’s livestock industry grow responsibly. The Coalition has worked with over 5,300 farmers, assisting with citing new barns, interpreting rules and regulations, enhancing neighbor relations, and implementing best management practices, all of which Kent was a big part of.
Kent’s integrity and thorough understanding of the industry set him apart. He was known for giving advice based on experience, not just what was written in manuals or textbooks. Farmers trusted him because he had been there and done that. His ability to deliver messages, even those that farmers might not like, with honesty and respect, earned him their admiration and trust.
Kent’s legacy lives on through the farmers he helped and the positive impact he had on Iowa’s agricultural community.
His dedication to family and farming is a testament to his enduring legacy, one that continues to inspire those who knew him.
You can watch his story by visiting the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s YouTube page.
High resolution images of all the 2024 Master Pork Producer Award winners are available for your use at this link.
About the Iowa Pork Producers Association
The mission of the Iowa Pork Producers Association is promoting, educating, and providing a leading voice for a sustainable, socially-responsible, and globally-competitive pork industry.
