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.
Early indications suggest the U.S. cattle industry may be nearing the end of its liquidation phase. Oklahoma State University livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel says the industry could be at or near the cyclical low.
January 29, 2026 12:44 PM
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Beef x Dairy cattle with strong genetics and documentation are earning prices comparable to native feeders.
January 29, 2026 08:00 AM
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FarmHER Chris Nellis and her daughters navigate loss while carrying on a 300-year farm legacy, milking cows in upstate New York.
January 28, 2026 03:27 PM
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Mixed product pricing and rising milk supplies suggest margin management will remain critical as 2026 unfolds.
January 28, 2026 06:00 AM
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Marilyn Schlake with the UNL Department of Agricultural Economics joined us for a closer look at the evolving role of livestock sale barns.
January 27, 2026 12:19 PM
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RFD NEWS correspondent Frank McCaffrey recently spoke with Dr. Mike Vickers, a South Texas rancher, who says illegal border crossings have dramatically declined in the last year.
January 27, 2026 11:51 AM
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