US Hog Inventory Increases by 1%

The latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reveals a 1% increase in the nation's hog inventory. As of June 1, there are 74.5 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, showing growth from both June 2023 and March 2024 figures.

The Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report highlights several key findings:

• Out of the total 74.5 million hogs and pigs, 68.5 million are market hogs and 6.01 million are kept for breeding.
• Between March and May 2024, U.S. farms weaned 34.0 million pigs, marking a 2% increase from the previous year.
• During the same period, hog and pig producers achieved an average weaning rate of 11.56 pigs per litter.
• Projections indicate that U.S. hog producers plan to farrow 2.96 million sows between June and August 2024, and another 2.94 million sows between September and November 2024.
• Among the states, Iowa leads with the largest hog inventory at 24.6 million head, followed by Minnesota with 9.20 million head, and North Carolina with 7.60 million head.

To compile this report, NASS surveyed 4,524 operators nationwide in early June. Data collection methods included online submissions via the NASS Respondent Portal, as well as mail, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.