South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to host the 2025 South Dakota Swine Summit on June 12, 2025, on the SDSU campus in Brookings.
The summit is for youth ages 12-21 who want to learn more about the swine industry and different career opportunities. From 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees can enjoy a mix of educational and hands-on sessions, along with a tour of the SDSU Swine Education and Research Facility.
It is free to attend thanks to the South Dakota Pork Producers Council. Registration is required by June 7 at the SDSU Extension Events page; search “summit”.
Throughout the day, youth will learn about all stages of swine production, from raising piglets to meat processing. Producers from around the state will demonstrate animal care, and attendees will get a chance for hands-on practice with care and showmanship.
“One of the aspects I really enjoy about the Swine Summit is getting the participants into the meat lab where they have the chance to see the final steps of swine production,” said Christina Bakker, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Meat Science Specialist. “Many people are unfamiliar with how live animals are processed into food and the career opportunities associated within the meat industry.”
The day will also include a veterinarian discussing biosecurity and animal health, along with a close look at how research is conducted and best practices in large commercial environments.
By showcasing SDSU’s own swine research facility, Rafe Royall, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Swine Specialist, said students get to see multiple stages of swine production and research, as well as what SDSU has to offer.
“This is an awesome opportunity for youth to get exposed to a wide variety of topics in the swine industry,” Royall said. “If you’ve got a kid that’s hungry to learn, whether they have experience with swine or is just enthralled with them, they’re going to have the opportunity to learn a great deal.”
For more information, contact Christina Bakker, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Meat Science Specialist; or Rafe Royall.
