The National Pork Board has named an Indiana farmer as their first ever America’s Pig Farmer Of the Year. Keith Schoettmer who runs a 23,000 head farrow to finish operation north of Indianapolis near Tipton was named the recipient of the award. He says he’s honored and excited to receive the recognition.

He says its critical pork producers talk to consumers who are far removed from the farm so that the right message gets out.

Schoettmer’s award is designed to recognize a pig farmer who excels at raising pigs using the WE CARE ethical principles. He advises his fellow producers to make time to tell their message.

In receiving the award Schoettmer passed a third party audit of on farm practices and went through a series of written and oral interviews conducted by subject matter experts. Schoettmer was one of four finalists for the award.