The Leman Swine Conference is back — and packed with timely topics, industry-leading experts, and fresh perspectives on swine health, production, and policy. Whether you’re a veterinarian, producer, researcher, or student, here are the Top 10 things you won’t want to miss at this year’s event
1. An Outstanding Lineup of Keynote Speakers
Start your mornings with insight and inspiration. This year’s keynote sessions feature:
- Bill Moore (Compeer Financial): “Risks and Opportunities for Pork Production in the Changing Economic Landscape”
- Luke Minion (Wholestone Farms): “From Supply Focused to Demand Obsessed”
- Jürgen Richt (Kansas State University): “Emerging Viral Threats and Mitigation Strategies in the Swine Industry”
- Pedro Urriola (University of Minnesota): “Blind Men and the Pig: Challenging Our Understanding of Sustainable Pork Systems”
These talks promise to set the tone with forward-looking discussions on economics, disease, sustainability, and consumer-driven change.
2. Honoring Excellence: Science in Practice Award Reception
Celebrate Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham, this year’s Leman Science in Practice award winner, whose work has made a lasting impact on the swine industry. Join the reception at the Science Museum of Minnesota, sponsored by Merck Animal Health, after Monday’s sessions to raise a glass to her contributions.
3. “Is it really worse? A comparative overview of PRRSV infections, past and present” at the SDEC Symposium
This special session offers a comparative look at PRRSV infections — separating perception from reality using hard data. A must-attend for those tracking one of swine health’s most persistent threats.
4. Beer and Bacon Conversations and Dr. Laura Bruner
One of the conference’s most beloved traditions returns — now at the St. Paul RiverCentre! Sit in on an engaging and candid conversation between Dr. Laura Bruner and Mark Schwartz as they discuss her 18-year journey in swine veterinary medicine. Registration required.
5. Viability PCR: The Diagnostic Frontier
Explore the latest breakthroughs in diagnostic testing with the “Confirmation of Viability” session. Chaired by Dr. Declan Schroeder, this session dives into viability PCR — one of the most exciting advancements since sequencing.
6. Future Voices: Morrison Swine Innovator Prize Finalists
Support the next generation of swine veterinarians! Hear from DVM students competing for the Morrison Prize as they present innovative research and ideas shaping the future of swine health and production.
7. Hot Topic: Neonatal Piglet Diarrhea
Always a challenge in the industry, neonatal piglet diarrhea gets a deep dive in Tuesday’s Physiology, diagnostics and control of diarrheas breakout. Stay informed on new research and practical strategies to manage this ongoing issue.
8. Policy Updates That Matter
With shifting regulations at both state and federal levels, this year’s Policy session is critical. Cut through the noise and get solid, reliable updates on the latest policy developments affecting the swine industry.
9. Opening Reception & Poster Session
Kick off the conference on Sunday evening at the new location — the St. Paul RiverCentre. Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, the opening reception is the perfect time to network and explore the latest research during the poster session in the Kellogg Lobby.
10. Emerging Challenges in the Swine Industry
Don’t miss the breakout session dedicated to “Emerging Challenges in the Swine Industry,” where experts will explore critical threats including Alpha-gal syndrome and New World screwworm. These issues have growing implications for both animal and human health, and this session will offer the latest science, case insights, and control strategies to help you stay ahead of the curve.
This year’s Leman Swine Conference promises to be one of the most exciting and informative yet. Don’t miss the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, advance your knowledge, and get inspired by the future of the industry.