Clinton farmer Josh Coombs elected President of NC Pork Council
GENERAL PRESS RELEASE
March 2026
Clinton farmer Josh Coombs elected President of NC Pork Council
New officers installed at annual conference
RALEIGH — Clinton pork producer Josh Coombs has been elected President of the NC Pork Council, stepping into a leadership role that helps guide one of North Carolina’s largest agricultural industries.
Coombs was installed as President during the NC Pork Council Annual Conference in February. He succeeds Jay Archer of Tarboro, who now serves as Past President. Reggie Strickland of Mount Olive will serve as Vice President and Lorenda Overman of Goldsboro will continue to serve as Secretary/Treasurer.
Coombs is a pork producer from Sampson County, one of North Carolina’s leading agricultural regions. As president, he will help represent pig farmers across the state and guide the organization’s work on behalf of the pork industry.
“It’s an honor to represent North Carolina pork producers,” Coombs said. “Our farmers care deeply about their animals, their land and the communities where they live. I’m proud to help tell their story and support the future of our industry.”
The NC Pork Council also announced seven newly elected or appointed board members who will represent producers across the state.
• Garret Barwick of Deep Run
• Chris Conser of Mount Pleasant
• Reid Cumbo of Clinton
• Blake Floars of Goldsboro
• Dean Hilton of Elizabethtown
• Kaleb Sargent of Clinton
• Mallory Strickland of Warsaw
“Strong leadership is essential for our industry,” said Roy Lee Lindsey, CEO of the NC Pork Council. “These producers and industry leaders bring experience from farms, research, animal health and business. Their willingness to serve helps ensure North Carolina pork producers continue to lead the nation in responsible production and innovation.”
The NC Pork Council represents pork producers and industry partners across the state. North Carolina ranks among the nation’s leading pork-producing states, with more than 2,100 permitted hog farms and an annual economic impact of $10.8 billion.
About the NC Pork Council
The NC Pork Council is the voice of North Carolina’s pork industry, advocating for the family farmers and industry partners who work hard every day to produce quality pork the right way — safely, responsibly, and sustainably. North Carolina is one of the top pork-producing states in the country, ranking third nationwide and contributing $10.8 billion to our state’s economy each year. Whether through advocacy, education, or community outreach, the NC Pork Council works to support responsible, smart farming practices and to ensure the continued success of the industry. Learn more at www.ncpork.org.