By Swine Web News Desk
Iowa Select Farms recently partnered with emergency responders and industry organizations to host a livestock trailer rollover response training, helping first responders better prepare for the rare but challenging scenario of a livestock transportation accident.
The hands-on training took place at the Iowa Falls Fire Department and was organized in collaboration with the Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the Iowa Pork Industry Center, Hardin County Emergency Management, and Central Iowa Towing.
The event focused on improving coordination and response procedures when livestock transport vehicles are involved in an accident.
“When seconds count, being familiar with the process can make all the difference,” said Dave Osman, Director of Transportation for Iowa Select Farms. “Large equipment and machinery can be intimidating, which is why hands-on training is so important. Working together builds communication and confidence, ultimately protecting both people and pigs.”
Participants were able to move step-by-step through a simulated emergency scenario, gaining experience with the equipment and procedures used when responding to a livestock trailer rollover.
Industry leaders from Iowa Select Farms—including Blake Eischeid, Director of Safety, and Chris Morgan, Director of Security—shared insights drawn from years of experience in transportation safety and emergency preparedness.
The training allowed first responders to:
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Step inside livestock trailers to better understand animal transport environments
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Become familiar with specialized towing and recovery equipment
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Discuss communication and response protocols during transportation emergencies
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Practice coordinated response strategies to protect both animals and people
Programs like this help build stronger partnerships between the livestock industry and emergency services while improving preparedness for situations that, although rare, require specialized knowledge.
Iowa Select Farms noted that the training reflects a shared commitment to safety and community collaboration.
“Every day, first responders use their skills, time, and courage to protect our communities,” the company said. “We’re honored to support their efforts through training like this.”
Livestock transportation plays a vital role in the pork production system, and initiatives like this help ensure both animal welfare and public safety remain top priorities across the industry.
