Josh and Megan Volante of Clutier, members of the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s 83rd class of Master Pork Producers. SCREENSHOT COURTESY OF IOWA PORK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION/YOUTUBE

DES MOINES – The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) announced the 2024 Master Pork Producers awardees at the Iowa Pork Congress banquet held on Wednesday, Jan. 22, in Des Moines. Among those honored were Josh and Megan Volante of Clutier.

The award winners including the Volantes embody the diversity of Iowa’s pig farms and the dedicated individuals who support pork producers. Nominated by their peers and neighbors, the honorees reflect the strength and collaboration within the pork industry.

Now in its 83rd year, the program welcomes annually a new class of honorees who join the ranks of Iowa’s most accomplished pork producers, representing eight decades of excellence and innovation in the field. Through this award, IPPA and Iowa State University celebrate the character, dedication, and impact of Iowa’s pork producers, showcasing the vital role they play in agriculture and their communities.

IPPA has now named 1,533 Iowa pig farming businesses as Master Pork Producers.

“The Master Pork awards showcase the best of pork production – celebrating those who are driven by passion and committed to feeding the world a safe, high-quality protein,” IPPA Producer Outreach Director Brielle Smeby said. “As the top pork producing state, Iowa’s success comes from our hardworking producers who face challenges head-on and continue to set the bar for excellence in the industry.”

IPPA’s 83rd class of Master Pork Producers

Brad Meyer, Rock Rapids

Chad & Renee Adams, Monticello

Doug Gruver, Sully

Jeremy Ahlers, Remsen

Josh & Megan Volante, Clutier

Kevin & Devin Lux, Cherokee

Matt & Michelle Thoma, Independence

Mike & Megan Loecke, Manchester

Pat & Krista Gent, Wellman

Jake Knepper, Jesup (posthumously)

The Volantes

For 25 years, Josh and Megan Volante have been dedicated to raising pigs in Clutier. Their commitment to the agriculture industry extends beyond pork, with a seed sales partnership and an Independent Soil Sampling and Nitrogen Modeling business. As the head of the operation, Josh ensures the highest level of care for the pigs. He is supported by two employees who help with day-to-day activities. Josh’s workday begins early in the barn and often extends well into the evening.

Since his involvement in the pork industry, Josh’s goal has been to produce a safe and nutritious product, raised in the best conditions possible. Despite the age of some facilities, Josh’s dedication to cleanliness and maintenance ensures they remain in top condition. He utilizes technology to monitor and manage the pigs, including setting limits for water usage, feed timers, and temperature alarms.

When it comes to load out, Josh and his team approach the task with a calm and efficient manner, adhering to the mantra that “slow is fast.” The Volantes are intentional with their data collection and utilize data collected from sales events to influence decisions for clients.

The Volantes integrate the We Care principles into their operation in more ways than one. They are good stewards of the land, focusing on efficient manure usage and conservation practices. Josh not only assists a local pumping crew with moving manure but also employs cover crops to maintain soil quality. Megan also works to incorporate data from soil sampling to guide nutrient applications.

The Volantes are actively involved in their community. Josh has served on the Hawkeye Community College Advisory Committee, as Vice President of the Tama Benton Cooperative, and is a delegate member of the Iowa Corn Growers Association. They are also members of both the Iowa Pork Producers Association and the Iowa Farm Bureau.

A video profile of the Volantes can be viewed via the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHC56GuqNnQ.

Nominations for the 2025 Master Pork Program awards will open in May.