For more than four decades, the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s Iowa Pork Congress has been an event where pork producers and assorted experts gather to share views and information about an industry that has long been vital to the Iowa economy.

This annual incarnation of this very popular gathering is in Des Moines in Hy-Vee Hall at the Iowa Events Center Wednesday and Thursday. Organizers say it is the nation’s largest winter swine trade show and conference.

Once again this year, the show will feature an impressive roster of speakers and an appealing array of exhibitors. There will be in the neighborhood of 300 trade-show booths according to the IPPA. It is expected that many of the exhibitors will be introducing new products or services at this year’s show.

The appeal of this event is in part its educational component. IPPA President Greg Lear, a Spencer area producer, is enthusiastic about the diverse appeal of the show and the seminars and demonstrations that will be featured.

“The Iowa Pork Congress has established a tradition of excellence over the years and it attracts several thousand producers and others involved in the pork industry, as well as most of the top companies who serve the pork industry,” he said in a statement released late last month. “We offer timely and informative seminars facilitated by some of the industry’s leading experts, great social functions and attendees have an array of networking opportunities. It really is a show for anyone who is involved in pork production, including our young swine enthusiasts.”

For more information about the Congress visit www.iowaporkcongress.org on the Web.

Make plans now to attend what promises to be a super event. You won’t be disappointed.