Iowa farmers, industry leaders announce coalition

Iowa farmers, industry leaders say animal care is main focus of new coalition

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- A group of farmers and industry leaders has announced a coalition aimed at providing Iowa residents with more information on farm animal care.

The Iowa Farm Animal Care Coalition announced its launch Thursday. It says it's designed to help farmers and consumers know more about the latest science-based animal care standards.

An independent team of experts also will offer voluntary on-site evaluations.

IFAC includes farmers from the Iowa Farm Bureau and the Iowa Pork Producers Association. It also includes Iowa State University colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture and Life Sciences, as well as the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.