Ready-Made vs Custom Pig Feed: Cost, Performance & Profitability (2026 Guide)
Introduction After 20+ years running a 5,000-head operation in North Carolina, I’ve used both ready-made commercial feeds and custom-formulated diets at different stages of my farming career. The decision between purchasing complete feeds from a…
Pig Feed Formulation Basics
Introduction After 20+ years running a 5,000-head operation in North Carolina, I can tell you that learning to formulate your own pig feed is one of the most valuable skills a producer can develop. According to USDA Economic Research Service data from…
Pig Farm Biosecurity Measures: Practical Protocols for Disease Prevention
Introduction Disease outbreaks cost the U.S. swine industry an estimated $3 billion annually in lost production, treatment expenses, and mortality. In my 15 years of swine practice across Iowa and the Midwest, I have witnessed devastating Porcine…
Vitamins Minerals Pigs Essential for Health and Growth
Introduction After 20+ years running a 5,000-head operation in North Carolina, I’ve seen firsthand how vitamin and mineral deficiencies can quietly devastate profitability. A 2024 USDA study found that hidden vitamin and mineral deficiencies impact…
Understanding the Pig Digestive System: A Farmer’s Guide
Discover how the pig digestive system works. Understand swine monogastric digestion and gut microbiome health to maximise feed efficiency and herd profits. The pig digestive system is a simple yet highly efficient process that allows pigs to convert feed…
Top Pig-Producing States in the USA: Regional Powerhouses of American Pork
Introduction After 20+ years running a 5,000-head operation in North Carolina, I’ve seen firsthand how geography shapes the American pork industry. Understanding commercial pig farming by state is essential for anyone evaluating market…
History of Pig Farming in America: From Colonies to Industrial Powerhouse
Trace the remarkable journey of American pig farming from 16th-century colonists to modern industrial operations. Discover key historical milestones, breed development, and industry evolution. Introduction After 20+ years running a 5,000-head operation…
Pig Housing and Farm Infrastructure in the USA: Design, Equipment & Management (2026)
TL;DR — Quick-Reference Summary Planning your pig housing and farm infrastructure doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s what every small-scale or backyard pig farmer in the USA needs to know heading into 2026: Introduction: Why Pig Housing…
Selecting Pig Breeding Stock for Your Farm: A Complete 2026 Guide
TL;DR – Quick Takeaways Introduction: Why Breeding Stock Selection Determines Your Farm’s Success Selecting breeding stock for your pig farm is arguably the most critical decision you’ll make as a pork producer. Whether you’re managing…
Pig Breeds in the USA: Complete Guide to Selection, Characteristics & Purpose (2026)
TL;DR: Quick Summary Are you seeking the ideal pig breed for your farm? Here’s what you need to know at a glance: Introduction: Why Breed Selection Matters Choosing the right pig breed is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a…