Dan Weber of Waukon Feed Ranch receives recognition as Master Pork Partner from Iowa Pork Producers Association
Honored as Master Pork Partner ... Dan Weber, Assistant General Manager at Waukon Feed Ranch, was named a 2024 Master Pork Partner by the Iowa Pork Producers Association. He is pictured at right above as he receives his award from Iowa Pork Producers Association Past President Matt Gent at the Iowa Pork Congress banquet held January 22 in Des Moines. Submitted photo.
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) has announced that Dan Weber as been named a 2024 Master Pork Partner. The award winners embody the diversity of Iowa’s pig farms and the dedicated individuals who support pork producers. Nominated by their peers and neighbors, these honorees reflect the strength and collaboration within the pork industry, and they were honored at the Iowa Pork Congress banquet held January 22 in Des Moines.
Dan Weber currently serves as the Assistant General Manager at Waukon Feed Ranch (WFR) in Waukon. As part of his role Weber oversees and collaborates with the swine department, guiding and mentoring both direct reports and other team members. His daily responsibilities range from handling day-to-day production issues to big-picture planning and financial forecasting for each sow unit. He is dedicated to the growth of WFR and the promotion of their pork products.
Working closely with contract growers, Weber ensures the production of safe and healthy animals, adhering to the We Care principles. He has played a significant role in improving manure disposal, lagoon management, and compost management, which are crucial for safeguarding natural resources and the communities they serve.
Weber says he takes immense pride in maintaining a safe and clean work environment. He ensures that facilities are well-maintained and that employees have the resources they need to perform their jobs effectively. One of Weber’s biggest initiatives since starting at WFR has been department wide meetings within the organization. The meetings aim to bring together all the pieces of the puzzle, to share and analyze financials and overall success to make sure everyone understands their inputs.
Weber, his wife Alicia, and their son Brayden are active members of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon. Weber is also involved with Allamakee County Pork Producers and Iowa Pork. His past contributions include serving on the Southwest Iowa Community College Ag Advisory Board and lending his expertise at the Iowa State Fair Animal Learning Center and the Iowa Pork Tent.
Weber’s commitment to the swine industry is evident in his actions, as he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the success of WFR. His participation in Iowa Pork’s Leadership Academy and the Pork Leadership Institute demonstrates his dedication to the industry. Additionally, his support of employees actively participating in the industry and engaging in leadership opportunities shows his drive for growth and longevity of the industry.
“The Master Pork awards showcase the best of pork production – celebrating those who are driven by passion and committed to feeding the world a safe, high-quality protein,” said IPPA Producer Outreach Director Brielle Smeby. “As the top pork producing state, Iowa’s success comes from our hardworking producers who face challenges head-on and continue to set the bar for excellence in the industry.”
Additional information about Weber can be further viewed by visiting Iowa Pork Producers Association’s YouTube channel at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sV6Q-jrnq0.
