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.
