USDA Releases Findings from Comprehensive Study on Small Swine Operation

Feb 26, 2024

In a recent development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled the outcomes of an extensive study examining small swine operations—farms managing fewer than 1,000 hogs. This study, conducted in June and July 2021 by USDA’s National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) in collaboration with the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), delves into health and production practices within this segment. Covering approximately 5,000 swine operations across 38 states, representing around 95% of small-scale U.S. swine farms, the report explores trends in health and disease management, pig movements, mortality rates, slaughter channels, and draws comparisons between small and large operations.

While the results from a concurrent study on larger operations, conducted from July 2021 to January 2022, are still pending, the released findings offer valuable insights into the dynamics of smaller swine operations. The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) actively promoted the NAHMS-NASS study, urging pork producers to participate. The implications of these findings are significant for the pork industry, particularly in understanding the nuances of smaller operations that play a pivotal role as primary suppliers of niche-market products.

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Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.