USDA’s December report places U.S. hogs and pigs at nearly 79 million head, which is down nearly one percent compared to the last quarter. However, the report exceeded expectations in other ways.
“The main surprise is a record September to November pig crop, up more than two percent from a year ago and just above the upper end of the range of pre-report expectations as the marginal cut in sows farrowed was more than offset by 11.92 Pigs per litter. Up more than two percent from last year’s record for the period continuing the upward trend in pigs per litter,” said Jason Franken.
While productivity trends like these are hard to maintain, Franken says there is still room for growth, with pig producers in Denmark currently averaging 15 pigs per litter.
Tyler Schuster is an ag industry advocate who mentors and supports the next generation, especially women finding their place in the cattle industry.
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NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart breaks down CAFO permits, EPA enforcement, and what cattle producers need to know as rules continue to evolve.
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Rebuilding domestic textiles depends on automation and vertical integration, not tariffs or legacy manufacturing models.
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Low prices are painful now, but production response could support stronger milk markets later in 2026.
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Merck’s Gary Tiller discusses new virtual fencing technology and how fence-free livestock management could change the way ranchers manage land and cattle.
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At CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses profitability, consumer demand, and how the integrated U.S.–Canada beef supply chain impacts cattle producers across North America.
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