From expanding pork production and Smithfield's future in Sioux Falls to National Pork Month celebrations, South Dakota Pork Producers Council Executive Director Tina Erickson shares what's happening across the state's pork industry.

South Dakota's pork industry is growing, and there's plenty happening across the state! Rachel Fishback of Pork Industry News welcomed Tina Erickson, Executive Director of the South Dakota Pork Producers Council, for a conversation about the opportunities, challenges and people shaping the future of pork production. Erickson stepped into her new leadership role on July 1, 2026, after serving as Director of Membership Outreach and Engagement. During the interview, she shared updates on the organization's leadership team, her transition into the executive director position and her passion for supporting the farm families who make up South Dakota's pork industry.

Erickson recently traveled to Washington, D.C., with five South Dakota pork producers to meet with lawmakers about California's Proposition 12 and efforts to include a legislative solution in the federal farm bill. The group met with Senator Mike Rounds, Congressman Dusty Johnson and a representative from Senator John Thune's office. Erickson also discussed the importance of expanding pork exports, strengthening consumer demand and protecting swine health. Above all, she emphasized the value of producers sharing their own stories with policymakers and the public.

With South Dakota experiencing growth in hog production and new barns being constructed, Erickson emphasized the importance of keeping pork processing capacity close to producers. The Sioux Falls facility serves pork producers throughout South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota and Nebraska, making its future significant for farmers, livestock truckers and surrounding communities. The conversation also highlighted the importance of supporting the next generation of pork producers and maintaining opportunities for family farms to thrive.

Looking ahead, Erickson shared exciting plans for the 2027 South Dakota Pork Congress in Sioux Falls, including industry updates, educational sessions, networking opportunities and presentations from national pork industry leaders. With October being National Pork Month, the conversation also turned to Porktober celebrations across South Dakota, including the Downtown Sioux Falls Pork Showdown featuring 26 restaurants, another seven participating restaurants in Madison and grocery store promotions encouraging consumers to enjoy more pork.

Throughout the interview, one message remained clear: the strength of South Dakota's pork industry comes from the people behind it. From the families raising pigs and the truckers transporting livestock to the organizations advocating for producers, Erickson wants more people to understand the dedication it takes to bring pork from the farm to the dinner table. As she looks toward the future, sharing those stories, building relationships and supporting South Dakota's pork producers remain at the heart of her leadership.

Watch the full interview with Tina Erickson on Pork Industry News to hear more about South Dakota's growing pork industry, Smithfield's future, legislative priorities, Pork Congress and National Pork Month celebrations.

Learn more about the South Dakota Pork Producers Council at https://www.southdakotapork.org.