Premier Boar-Specific Event Draws Global Audience to Advance AI Excellence
The 2025 Midwest Boar Stud Managers Conference is set to take place August 13–14 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in St. Louis-Westport. Organized by Dr. Tim Safranski, University of Missouri Extension state swine breeding specialist, this biannual event remains North America’s only conference exclusively focused on boars and semen collection.
Now in its 25th year, the conference continues to deliver highly relevant insights for those managing artificial insemination (AI) programs. “The first conference in 2000 came at a time when less than half of U.S. sows were bred artificially,” Safranski said. “While female-focused training existed, boar and semen work were critically underserved. This event changed that—and it continues to lead the way.”
The conference attracts 160–180 attendees, representing approximately 85% of the boars used in the U.S. AI system. In addition to participants from 18–20 states, international guests from countries such as Germany and China are also expected.
2025 Conference Highlights Include:
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Boar Isolation Protocols and Collection Performance
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Environmental Effects on Boar Development
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Feeding Strategies and Their Impact on Boar Workability
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Managing Feed Contaminants Like Mycotoxins
Safranski emphasized that the agenda balances core practices with forward-looking research. “Our speakers come from academia and industry across 10 U.S. states, plus Germany and China—this is the best of the best,” he said.
Sessions span topics related to both barn management and lab practices, including semen processing updates, nutrition, health and hygiene, facility design, and sow farm dynamics. A standout feature remains the Stud Managers Panel, where experienced professionals field candid questions from attendees in a dynamic, open-discussion format.
In addition to its educational value, the event offers built-in networking time with sponsors, speakers, and peers.
Registration:
To learn more or register, visit: https://cvent.me/N2ZRPW
For questions, contact: Tim Safranski at safranskiT@missouri.edu
