Iowa Pork Producer Finds Balance After a Profitable Year

In an industry often defined by volatility and expansion cycles, one Iowa pork producer is taking a different view heading into 2026: stability matters.

For Jeremy Ahlers, pork production has always been part of life. Raised in the business, he now operates a diversified hog and crop farm alongside his family, managing multiple finishing sites while keeping a close eye on costs, animal health, and day-to-day execution.

After a strong financial year, Ahlers says the focus isn’t on rapid growth — it’s on maintaining a system that works.

“We’re in a good spot right now,” he said. “That gives us confidence moving forward.”

Built on Discipline, Not Speed

Ahlers’ operation includes two wean-to-finish barns and a larger feeder-to-finish site, supported by a mix of owned and custom-fed pigs. That structure allows flexibility while spreading risk — a strategy many producers have leaned on as markets and inputs have shifted over the past several years.

Rather than chasing expansion, Ahlers emphasizes consistency: keeping barns running efficiently, managing feed and health programs carefully, and staying proactive in a region with a high concentration of hogs.

Health and biosecurity are central to the operation. Facility upkeep, controlled access, and attention to daily details help reduce risk — especially important in dense hog country.