Crowded aisles of the 2014 World Pork Expo were filled with folks on hand for a number of reasons. Of course the worries over porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) were top of mind for many, and there were seminars and discussions of this hot topic. Even Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack was on hand to weigh in on the topic, but we caught up with a few attendees to learn more about what brought them to Des Moines for the big show.
On the whole the folks we connected with came to see what's new and keep up on the changing technology impacting agriculture, and there was plenty of that as data collection, remote monitoring and improved sensor technology were all part of the exhibitor mix. A show like World Pork Expo so focused on one area of agriculture, attracted exhibitors you might not see at other shows as well, giving producers the chance to see the latest and greatest in person.
This year's show was greeted with excellent, rain-free, weather that wasn't too hot during walks between buildings or along 'hospitality tent row.'
In this gallery, we share some thoughts of families we connected with about the show and issues for their operations too. Check out the pictures, and learn more. And dont' miss our look at setting up for the big show too.
