SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The president of the Illinois Pork Producers Assoc. (IPPA) is urging the state’s pork producers to join the organization in downtown Springfield for their annual Legislative Day and Reception, set for March 15.

“There are many important legislative issues that we will be focusing on,” said Gary Asay, IPPA president and a pork producer from Osco. “I would encourage all pork producers to make plans to attend this year’s Legislative Day.”

Jim Kaitschuck, IPPA executive director, said pork producers face numerous issues including frivolous nuisance lawsuits and unfounded complaints that affect their bottom lines.

“IPPA has been instrumental in initiating and supporting pending legislation to address these issues. Producers must be involved and express their views and concerns to their elected officials,” Kaitschuck said. “Legislators hear from many different groups (and) we must provide the pork producers’ perspective to ensure a continued viable pork industry in Illinois.”

Check-in for the event will commence at 10:30 a.m. in the Illinois Room at the Springfield Hilton, 700 E. Adams St.

Those attending will be briefed on central issues facing the General Assembly and learn more about the legislative process and current concerns for pork producers from an assembly of experts and legislators. After lunch, producers will head to the nearby Capitol building to meet with legislators and discuss their concerns.

A reception will be held at the Hilton beginning at 5 p.m. allowing producers to talk with legislators and staff members in an informal setting.

Pork producers are urged to call today to secure registration, though walk-in registration will be available.

Contact the IPPA office for more information or to register at 217-529-3100 or visit www.ilpork.com

This farm news was published in the March 8, 2006 issue of Farm World.