Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report’s critical insights hinge on producer participation

Rich historical data illuminates industry trends, but the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) stresses the critical nature of non-market commentary in these reports.

In recent weeks, pork producers across the nation have received correspondence from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), heralding the upcoming release of the USDA’s Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report.

According to USDA statisticians, active participation in this data collection process is paramount for both the department and the producers themselves.

“They can use the data to make informed decisions about their operation, and none of this would be possible without farmer participation,” explained Anthony Fischer, an expert in agricultural statistics. “It’s also important to remember that from a methodology perspective, smaller operations are sampled at a lower rate than larger ones, so weights are attached to them to account for an operation’s size.”

The Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report‘s history spans over 150 years, offering a rich timeline of information that illuminates how the hog industry has evolved. While it can provide clarity on the industry’s direction, Fischer emphasized that NASS refrains from commenting on potential market implications. Instead, the report focuses on essential metrics such as pigs saved per litter, farrowing intentions, and inventories by state.

For those seeking a deeper dive into the report’s findings, the National Pork Board will host a webinar next week, providing an opportunity to explore this vital industry resource. Registration is available at PorkCheckoff.Org.

Related Stories
While African Swine Fever has yet to reach the United States, researchers at Kansas State University are working to ensure it can be easily detected.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Reporter Charles Denney takes us to Crafts Fair and Santa’s Shop, where people can buy items made by local craftsmen and donate their time and money to help their neighbors.
The Farm Monitor takes us along to see how the patience and perseverance of Georgia’s citrus farmers is bearing fruit in a big way.
Agriculture Shows
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Farm Traveler is for people who want to connect with their food and those who grow it. Thanks to direct-to-consumer businesses, agritourism, and social media, it’s now easier than ever to learn how our food is made and support local farmers. Here on the Farm Traveler, we want to connect you with businesses offering direct-to-consumer products you can try at home, agritourism sites you can visit with your family, and exciting new technologies that are changing how your food is being grown.
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.
Host Ben Bailey hops in the tractor cab, giving farmers 10 minutes to answer as many questions and grab as much cash as they can for their local FFA chapter.