Senator Rusty Black Recognized with Outstanding Legislator Award

Missouri Pork Association Presents Honor at 2026 Missouri Pork Expo

Osage Beach, Mo.,-Mike Diggs, chairman of the Missouri Pork Association (MPA), recognized Senator Rusty Black (R-12th District) with the MPA Outstanding Legislator Award during the 2026 Missouri Pork Expo on February 17. Senator Black was chosen for his outstanding support of the Missouri Pork Association, the Missouri pork industry and all of agriculture.

"Senator Black has been a consistent advocate for the pork industry and Missouri agriculture," said Diggs. "We appreciate his practical, common-sense approach to the legislative process and his dedication to advancing Missouri's number one industry."

Senator Black is a former public educator dedicating 33 years teaching Missouri kids agriculture. During Sen. Black's political career, that same dedication has continued as a strong leader in recognizing and advancing agriculture, especially animal agriculture. Specifically, his recent efforts in securing funding for the new abattoir and meat science center at the University of Missouri will pay dividends to Missouri for years to come. Additionally, Sen. Black is an ardent supporter of youth leadership programs, which are so very important to preparing our next generation of kids.

Pork producers from across the state attended the 2026 Missouri Pork Expo held in Osage Beach, Missouri on February 17-18. Highlights included a trade show, educational sessions, and guest speakers.

The Missouri Pork Association represents the state's pork producers in the areas of promotion, research, education and public policy. For more information about this or any other programs of the Missouri Pork Association, visit www.mopork.com, or call (573) 445-8375.

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