Veterinarians and others in Iowa's pork industry have the opportunity to become Pork Quality Assurance Plus Advisors under the National Pork Board's PQA Plus program. The certification process requires attendance at a daylong training session and passing an exam at the conclusion of that session. A training program is being offered by the Iowa Pork Industry Center at Iowa State University.

James McKean, associate director of IPIC and ISU Extension swine veterinarian, is coordinating the training to be held Sept. 6 at the Quality Inn, 2601 East 13th St. in Ames.

Not all are eligible

To be eligible to submit an application, people must meet the following qualifications:
1. Be a veterinarian, extension specialist or ag educator (defined for this program as a person who spends full time in adult education or at least half time in production training) AND
2. Have a D.V.M. or B.S. in animal science (or equivalent) AND
3. Have two years of recent documentable swine production experience.

McKean said those who qualify and are interested in the program should download, complete and submit the two-page application form available online at www.ipic.iastate.edu/PQAPapp906.doc The form also is available by fax by calling Jane Runneals at IPIC at (515) 294-4103.

Sessions to be taught by faculty

McKean said the session will be taught by ISU animal science and veterinary medicine faculty members who are certified PQA Plus trainers.

"If you're interested in attending, please let us know by submitting an application as soon as possible," he said. "The application deadline is Aug. 24, with the $75 due from approved applicants by Aug. 31."