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Rooted in Pork: Hogs help northwestern Iowa communities thrive

By Ashley Englin, ISU Extension Swine Specialist
Apr 30, 2026
12 hrs ago

Hogs economic impact — In many northwest Iowa towns, agriculture-related jobs are the backbone that keeps communities growing and resilient.
Photo courtesy of National Pork Board and the Pork Checkoff. Des Moines, IA USA

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By Ashley Englin, ISU Extension Swine Specialist

In northwestern Iowa, pork production is more than a part of agriculture. It is a driving force behind local jobs, businesses, and community vitality.

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Ashley Englin is a swine specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Reach her at aenglin@iastate.edu.