In 2018, the Oklahoma Pork Council Excellence Award was established to recognize those pork producers who have made the daily work of raising pigs more than just a job, but a passionate calling to take care of their animals and the people around them. This award covers all sectors of pork production, and it rewards those outstanding producers who excel in at least one of Oklahoma Pork’s four strategic intentions.

For more than 15 years, Ash Dennie has served Oklahoma’s pork industry with a true talent for animal care and farm management. Growing up in Holdenville, he began by helping part-time at a local pig farm through high school before opening Ran-Mar Farms with his family in 2012.

As co-owner and manager of the now 2,400 head sow farm, Ash oversees all aspects of raising “our girls” as he affectionately refers to the Ran-Mar pigs. Under his management, Ran-Mar Farms expanded their operation while minimizing disease and retaining a consistent group of farm employees. He has a keen eye for animal health and has earned a great reputation for quality animals in partnership with Tyson’s Pork Group. Ash is known not only for his hands-on skills caring for the herd, but also for his impressive maintenance roles ranging from electrician to carpenter and much more.

In addition to his dedication to the farm, Ash is an incredibly present father and new grandfather. He continually makes his family a priority, all while juggling the many roles that come with running a successful hog farm. The Oklahoma Pork Council celebrates Ash for his hard-working example of excellence in pork production. Click here to watch Ash's special award video that premiered at the Oklahoma Pork Congress earlier this month!