WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — The latest Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report (PDF Version) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows the domestic hog herd slipping again, with 74.5 million head on September 1, 2025, down one percent from a year earlier.
The breeding herd dropped two percent to 5.93 million head, while the market hog inventory of 68.5 million was also off by one percent. The June–August pig crop fell three percent from 2024 to 34.1 million head, even as pigs saved per litter inched higher to 11.82.
Producers signal further cutbacks, with sow farrowing intentions down two percent for September–November and slightly lower for December–February. The numbers came in weaker than some industry expectations, which had anticipated modest herd growth after earlier declines.
Analysts note continuing pressure from productivity and disease challenges, including Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), which has reduced output in key regions.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
While there has been an increase in outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) this migration season, the CDC says the public health risk is low.
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John Appel with the Farmers Business Network (FBN) joins us for a closer look at the 2026 Crop Protection Market Outlook Report.
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Imported lean beef continues to play a critical role in U.S. hamburger and ground-beef production, with any added volume from Argentina serving as a supplement — not a market overhaul.
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A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
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For aging operators and their rural neighbors, staying socially engaged is a practical strategy to preserve decision-making capacity and farm vitality.
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