Loecke Family of Manchester Among Several Recipients Named Master Pork Producers

The Iowa Pork Producers Association honored several local residents as Master Pork Producers during their annual Iowa Pork Congress, which was held in late January.

Mike and Megan Loecke were announced as 2024 Master Pork Producer Awardees. 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. 

Mike and Megan are the dynamic duo behind Pork Chop Ranch Inc. and 5 Sisters L.L.C., outside of Manchester. Established in 2003, Pork Chop Ranch Inc. oversees wean-to-finish facilities and manages contract production on the family’s seven confinement sites. They also utilize manure from these sites in their row-crop farming practices, enhancing sustainability. In 2014, they founded 5 Sisters L.L.C., which owns and manages wean-to-finish facilities across three locations. This venture aims to pioneer future ownership in the hog industry for their five daughters, Macy, Myla, Lucille, Trudy, and Vera. The facilities operate under contract production, ensuring consistency and quality.

In addition to these ventures, they also own a small show pig operation with 12 sows, providing competitive show pigs for county and state fairs. Working with the next generation, Mike and his daughters work together to make decisions for the operation, including things such as artificial insemination and farrowing.

Their community involvement is also extensive. Mike has served on the Delaware County Pork Producers, School Board, Parish Council, and Delaware County Fair board. He also uses his auctioneering skills to help local organizations and churches with Fundraisers. The family volunteers at the State Fair Pork Tent each year, hosts several benefit auctions in the area, and provides auctions for the Delaware County Fair livestock sale and Delaware County Pork Producers Annual Pie Auction. 

You can watch the Loecke’s story here:

The Iowa Pork Producers Association also honored Chad and Renee Adams of Monticello, Matt and Michelle Thoma of Independence and Jake Knepper of Jesup (posthumously) as Master Pork Producers at this year’s Iowa Pork Congress.

photo courtesy of Iowa Pork Producers Association