The Iowa Pork Producers Association will host the 2016 Iowa Pork Congress Jan. 27-28 at the Iowa Events Center in downtown Des Moines. Anyone with an interest in swine and the pork industry is encouraged to attend. The event this year will feature more than 300 tradeshow exhibitors, top-notch seminars, youth activities, social events and outstanding networking opportunities. A listing follows here. For preregistration and more information, go to iowaporkcongress.org.

Special events at 2016 Iowa Pork Congress
The following events are held at the Community Choice Credit Union Vets Auditorium unless otherwise noted.

IOWA PORK CONGRESS: The 44th annual convention and show sponsored by Iowa Pork Producers Association is one of the longest-running, most popular swine events in the nation. The 2016 version will feature educational seminars, tradeshow, social events, networking and more.

Kickoff Reception and Auction. This event will be held Tuesday, Jan. 26 at 5 p.m., Skywalk level, in rooms 316-320. You're invited to join the fun and excitement of the Iowa Pork Foundation's Kickoff Reception and Auction for student scholarships. The live auction is sure to generate some laughs so bring your checkbook and help raise money for scholarships.

Keynote Presentation: Patrick Moore will speak Wednesday, Jan. 27 at 2:15 p.m. in Hy-Vee Hall, lower level, rooms 107 and 108. The "sensible environmentalist" will deliver the keynote presentation at the 2016 Iowa Pork Congress. He'll discuss the future of agriculture and the environmental issues associated with growing food and fiber.

Producer Recognition Reception. Presented by Alltech, this event is Wednesday, Jan. 27 at 4 p.m. in the third floor pre-function area. "Join us as we recognize producers and other stakeholders for their leadership in the pork industry," says Dave Struthers, IPPA president. "We'll recognize public policy efforts and involvement. Many of our state lawmakers will be in attendance and you can enjoy a cocktail and hors d'oeuvres in a relaxed atmosphere."

Pork Congress Banquet. It will be held Wednesday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m. in the grand ballroom pre-function area. Meet the newest class of Master Pork Producers, the Pork All American, Master Seedstock Producer and the Honorary Master Pork Producers. Watch the crowning of the new Iowa Pork Queen and the introduction of the new Youth Pork Ambassadors. The program begins after you enjoy a delicious pork dinner.

Dessert Social. Presented by Zoetis, it will take place Wednesday, Jan. 27 at 9 p.m. in third floor pre-function area. Enjoy a cocktail and chat with the new IPPA President Al Wulfekuhle, and get to know the new Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team.

Youth Swine Judging Contest. This event is Thursday, Jan. 28, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Livestock Pavilion, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Iowa 4-H and FFA members are invited to participate in the IPPA's eighth annual Youth Swine Judging Contest. Students can learn more about the pork industry, test their judging skills, earn college scholarships and visit the Iowa Pork Congress tradeshow.